#Japan #Osaka #Meiji #Bandai #TOPPAN

Launching the Yogurt Cup Recycling Challenge

In a progressive move toward sustainability, Meiji Co., Ltd., Bandai Co., Ltd., and Toppan Co., Ltd. are excited to announce the launch of the 'Meiji Bulgaria Yogurt Cup Recycling Challenge.' This initiative is set to take place from October 20 to November 30, 2025, across nine Bandai supermarket locations in the Kansai region, specifically in Hyogo, Osaka, and Nara prefectures.

Goals of the Initiative

The primary objective of this recycling initiative is to encourage participation from consumers while promoting a circular economy that emphasizes resource recycling. Traditional recycling efforts have seen paper containers, such as milk cartons, successfully recycled. However, yogurt cups pose unique challenges due to their waterproof lining and residue, making them not easily classified for recycling. This initiative aims to address these barriers and facilitate effective recycling processes.

The Importance of Sustainability

As global awareness of environmental issues escalates, the need for circular economic practices has garnered significant attention. The Meiji Bulgaria Yogurt line, consisting of four 400g varieties, will specifically target the recycling of paper cups originally used for these products. By collaborating with Bandai and Toppan, the companies are jointly exploring innovative recycling practices that involve consumers, retailers, and manufacturers.

Engagement and Participation

From this collaboration, the recycled yogurt cups will not merely be discarded but will be revitalized into promotional materials and campaign tools for Meiji. The recycling process will initiate at local supermarkets, where designated collection boxes will be placed. Consumers will be encouraged to drop off their cleaned cups at these locations:

• - Meiji Bulgaria Yogurt LB81 Plain
• - Meiji Bulgaria Yogurt LB81 Plain Fat-Free
• - Meiji Bulgaria Yogurt LB81 Calcium and Iron
• - Meiji Bulgaria Yogurt LB81 Plain HOME MADE STORY

Collection Process

Participants can conveniently collect the cups during supermarket operating hours, ensuring that community involvement is straightforward and efficient. Cleaning the cups before disposal is part of the sustainability education that consumers will engage in throughout this initiative.

Collaboration of Companies

Each company plays a vital role in the initiative:

• - Meiji: Proposes strategies for cup collection and oversees the repurposing of collected materials.
• - Bandai: Provides physical space for collection, publicizes the campaign, manages collection boxes, and addresses consumer queries.
• - Toppan: Coordinates the recycling initiative, designs collection materials, and helps manage the operational aspects of the recycling process alongside awareness campaigns.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, Meiji, Bandai, and Toppan aim to expand this recycling program beyond the trial phase, working closely with retailers, local governments, waste collection businesses, and the paper manufacturing industry.

By broadening the collaboration scope, they hope to enhance the recycling of paper packaging in general and deepen awareness among consumers about the importance of sustainable practices. Through initiatives like this, they are committed to shaping a more effective circular economy in Japan.

In summary, this recycling initiative signals a significant stride towards environmental responsibility, demonstrating how collaborative efforts can lead to impactful results in addressing ecological challenges. Through the Meiji Bulgaria Yogurt Cup Recycling Challenge, these companies aim not only to facilitate recycling but also to educate and inspire consumers to participate actively in sustainability efforts.