Transforming Fashion Exchange: Sustainable Practices at Sun Marche in Tokyo

The Transformative Clothing Exchange Event at Sun Marche

In an effort to combat the environmental crisis caused by textile waste, One Piece Co., will host a clothing exchange within the "Sun Marche" event in Tokyo. This exciting event will take place from March 14 to 15, 2026, at Tsukishima Park in Chuo City, Tokyo.

Addressing the Need for Sustainable Fashion

Japan faces a staggering issue of approximately 470,000 tons of clothing wasted each year, much of which could still be worn. A significant portion of this waste arises from clothes that are discarded due to size changes or shifting personal tastes. Interestingly, it’s estimated that extending the life of clothing by just one year could reduce waste by about 30,000 tons annually.

Since 2021, One Piece Co. has organized 52 clothing exchange events nationwide, drawing over 48,500 participants and resulting in a remarkable reduction of 59,500 kg of CO₂ emissions.

At the Sun Marche event, the previous two iterations had attracted around 900 people and cut down over 1,089 kg of CO₂ emissions. This success highlights the event's focus on sustainable practices and community engagement.

Unique Features of the Event

The upcoming clothing exchange aims to provide exceptional value to families, especially in the context of spring cleaning and new beginnings. Attendees will enjoy a chance to experience sustainable development goals (SDGs) effectively while easing household expenses. This event will offer the thrill of discovering garments they might not typically choose.

Alongside the clothing exchange, One Piece has partnered with Kimura Soap Co., a company with a rich history since its establishment in 1924, to sell care products aimed at prolonging the life of garments. This initiative seeks to foster a culture of care and respect for clothing, further extending the lifecycle of fashion.

Collaborations and Special Initiatives

1. Collaboration with Kimura Soap "asuno"

The event features a collaboration with Kimura Soap, showcasing products that balance cleaning power with safety. These items are suitable for delicate clothes and eliminate the need for fabric softeners, streamlining the laundry process. Furthermore, by July 2025, Kimura Soap plans to achieve the B Corp™ certification, affirming its commitment to social and environmental responsibility. An impressive 87.3% biodegradability rate underscores the product's eco-friendliness, making it gentle on both individuals and the planet.

2. Partnership with Mitsui Fudosan Residential

At the same time, the event will collaborate with Mitsui Fudosan Residential’s "Wangan Action" and MIFA to implement a "hand-me-down cycling project." This initiative encourages attendees to donate children’s soccer gear, training shoes, and apparel for recycling. Cleaning and redistributing the collected items fosters a spirit of sustainability while strengthening community bonds.

3. University Student Involvement

The event will also see active participation from several university students passionate about sustainability. Their involvement presents a unique opportunity for them to engage in the operations of the event, advocating for a circular society while inspiring their peers.

Event Details

- Event Name: Clothing Exchange at Sun Marche
- Date: March 14 and 15, 2026
- Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Venue: Tsukishima Park, 1-9-8 Kachidoki, Chuo City, Tokyo
- Access: Directly accessible via Toei Oedo Line, Kachidoki Station, Exit A4a or A4b
- Participation Fee: Free
- How to Participate: Attendees are encouraged to bring pre-loved clothing for exchange. For every item donated, one piece can be selected from the exchange (up to five items maximum).
- Accepted Clothing: Clean spring and summer garments only (underwear, swimwear, uniforms, and footwear are not accepted) and sports-related items.

Looking to the Future

One Piece Co.'s director of the clothing exchange project, Haruya Ishida, emphasizes the importance of these events, stating, "The clothing exchange is not just a place for reusing items; it's an experience of connecting with the community through fashion. We aim to cultivate a culture of valuing and caring for our garments. Everyone, especially children, can take part in safeguarding the future through their fashion choices."

As this movement grows, One Piece Co. remains dedicated to creating sustainable practices within the fashion industry, transforming the way we think about clothing disposal and reuse.

Additional Resources

Hash Tags: #FashionConnects #ClothingExchange #SunMarche #CircularFashion

About One Piece Co.

Founded on March 15, 2005, One Piece Co. specializes in women’s apparel, offering diverse fashion solutions that cater to women aged 40 to 60. The company’s mission is to foster a sustainable society while significantly reducing clothing waste and revitalizing local communities. Their commitment is reflected in the success of the clothing exchange programs they conduct across the nation.