#Japan #Sakata City #Sakata #automotive recycling #Hamada Elementary

Insightful Tour for Fifth Graders at Automotive Recycling Facility

On November 13, 2025, fifth graders from Hamada Elementary School in Sakata City participated in a special educational tour organized by the Automotive Recycling Promotion Center (located in Minato, Tokyo). This initiative aims to provide young students with firsthand experience regarding the operations involved in automotive recycling.

The event was facilitated in cooperation with Nagata Products Co., Ltd., led by CEO Norio Nagata. The program kicked off with an informative classroom session where students learned about the significant role of dismantling companies in the automotive recycling process and the procedures involved in recycling end-of-life vehicles. The knowledge shared during this session served as a foundation for their upcoming observations.

Following the theoretical part, the students moved to Nagata Products' facility, where they witnessed critical operations in real-time. They observed the proper processing of airbags—an essential safety feature in vehicles—and saw firsthand how various components from decommissioned cars are removed and repurposed for future use.

The visit left a lasting impression on many students. They engaged actively by asking questions such as, "So, not only regular cars but also buses and trucks are recycled?" This curiosity reflects a growing awareness among young people about environmental issues and sustainability in the automotive sector.

One student shared, "As I listened to how many machines were used in the process, it got more and more fascinating. This has been a great experience!" This enthusiasm signifies the impact of experiential learning and how it can cultivate an interest in engineering and environmental stewardship among youth.

This educational initiative aligns with the broader goals of promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility to younger generations. The students not only learned about automotive recycling but also about teamwork, engineering, and the importance of responsible waste management.

It's events like these that can inspire future innovators in the field of environmental technology and engineering. Upon completing the tour, students departed with a better understanding of how recycling efforts contribute to a sustainable future.

Event Summary:

1. Date and Time: November 13, 2025, 10:45 AM – 11:40 AM
2. Location: Nagata Products Co., Ltd., Takasago, Sakata City, Yamagata Prefecture
3. Participants: 26 fifth-grade students from Hamada Elementary School
4. Program Highlights:
- Education on automotive recycling practices
- Observations of dismantling processes
- Examination of airbag handling and recycled components

This event reflects a growing commitment to educating our future leaders about sustainable practices and the vital role they can play in creating a better world.