Fifth Graders Discover Automaker Recycling Efforts at Daihatsu's Kyoto Plant

On October 24, 2025, a group of 47 fifth-grade students from Mukomachi Third Koyo Elementary School participated in an informative tour organized by the Automobile Recycling Promotion Center, located in Minato, Tokyo. This initiative aimed to provide students with firsthand experience of an automaker's efforts in promoting vehicle recycling, partnering with Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd., led by President Masahiro Inoue.

The day began with a classroom session, where students learned about Daihatsu's commitment to automobile recycling and got insights into the operations at the Kyoto (Oyamazaki) factory, which is one of the company's major production hubs. This introductory session included videos and discussions about the various processes involved in modern automobile manufacturing, placing a strong emphasis on sustainable practices.

Following the classroom introduction, the students moved to the factory where they observed the essential stages of automobile production, including painting, assembly, and inspection. During the painting process demonstration, they learned how Daihatsu has adopted innovative methods, such as using cardboard filters to recover unused paint. This technique has significantly reduced water and paint usage compared to traditional methods, underscoring the company's commitment to efficiency and environmental stewardship.

The experience was eye-opening for the students, who expressed amazement at the advancements in technology and practices within the manufacturing process. "I was surprised to see how painting is shifting from human workers to robots and the various efforts made to enhance efficiency," stated one student. Others posed thoughtful questions, such as what measures are taken in manufacturing processes to promote recycling further.

The visit proved to be an invaluable opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of the automotive industry's recycling initiatives and the importance of sustainability in modern manufacturing. The students left the factory inspired and equipped with knowledge about how automakers can, and do, play a critical role in enhancing environmental conservation through innovative recycling practices.

Event Details

1. Date and Time: October 24, 2025, from 9:10 AM to 10:55 AM
2. Location: Daihatsu Motor Co., Kyoto (Oyamazaki) Factory
1-1, Kita Hosoike, Shimo Ueno, Oyamazaki-cho, Otokuni-gun, Kyoto
3. Participants: 47 Fifth-Grade Students from Mukomachi Third Koyo Elementary School
4. Program:
- Classroom Learning (Daihatsu's initiatives, video viewing, etc.)
- Factory Tour (Manufacturing processes: painting, assembly, inspection, etc.)

This visit not only played a pivotal role in educating young minds about the significance of recycling in the automobile industry but also inspired them to think about a more sustainable future. By engaging with industry practices firsthand, the children left with a richer understanding of how manufacturing can harmonize with environmental responsibilities.