SmaGO Smart Trash Bin Installed at Awaji Island's Uzushio Road Station

In a significant move towards sustainable tourism, Forcetec has introduced its innovative smart trash bins, SmaGO, at the Uzushio Road Station in Minami Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture, on November 13, 2023. This environmentally friendly solution, powered by solar energy, automatically compresses waste to about one-fifth of its original volume while also offering communication management capabilities.

The Uzushio Road Station, renowned for being the closest stop to the picturesque whirlpools of Naruto, underwent a complete renovation and reopened in October 2025. Since then, it has attracted numerous visitors, making it a bustling hub for tourists looking to enjoy breathtaking views of the Onaruto Bridge and the tidal whirlpools.

Addressing Waste Management Challenges

The surge in visitors has brought about challenges in waste management within the station, leading to an increase in the volume of refuse generated. Cleaning staff have found themselves continuously engaged in waste collection. To tackle this issue, SmaGO has been installed on the second floor of the station, strategically positioned near the observation restaurant, to improve the efficiency of waste collection while maintaining the area's stunning scenery.

Innovative Design Features

The design of the SmaGO bins features captivating images of the region's famous whirlpools and incorporates the official mascot of Uzushio Road Station, Uzubo. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the installations but also serves as a means to promote the charm of Awaji Island to all visitors.

Sustainability and Future Developments

Forcetec aims to implement SmaGO smart trash bins across various tourist sites and road stations nationwide, promoting sustainable tourism practices. The introduction of these bins serves as a model for harmonious coexistence between environmental beautification and operational efficiency in popular tourist destinations.

About SmaGO

SmaGO is engineered with a focus on eco-friendliness, operating on solar energy to automatically compress waste. Its communication features notify staff of waste levels, optimizing collection processes. The bins also allow for customizable design wraps, enabling awareness campaigns for proper waste disposal while potentially reducing operational costs through sponsorships.

The implementation of SmaGO aligns with six of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), demonstrating its commitment to tackling waste issues across various regions. As evidenced in other locations, such as Omotesando and Dotonbori, the introduction of SmaGO has resulted in substantial reductions in waste collection frequency and littering, showcasing its effectiveness.

Conclusion

Forcetec, headquartered in Tokyo, seeks to carry forward the mission of effective waste management through its innovative SmaGO smart trash bins. The completed installation at Uzushio Road Station is just the beginning of their broader commitment to integrating sustainable practices within the tourism sector, ensuring that future generations can continue to admire the natural beauty of places like Awaji Island.

For more information about SmaGO and Forcetec's vision for sustainable tourism, please visit Forcetec's official website. For inquiries, contact Forcetec's public relations at 03-3453-7140 or visit their contact page.