#Japan #Water Week #Setagaya #Uchimizu #Sui Kiko

Celebrating Water Week with Traditional Uchimizu Events

From August 1 to 7, Japan celebrated Water Week, organized by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. In alignment with this initiative, Sui Kiko Co., a company specializing in the design, construction, and management of water supply and drainage facilities, hosted multiple 'Uchimizu' events across various locations in Japan, aiming to utilize around 30 liters of recycled water for the cause.

On August 4, approximately 25 employees from the Sui Kiko Group participated in an 'Uchimizu' event at the company headquarters in Setagaya, Tokyo. This traditional practice involves sprinkling water on the ground to cool the air, helping to alleviate the heat experienced in recent summers.

Background of the Event

The 'Uchimizu' event was conducted as part of the Ministry's ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the significance of efficient water recycling initiated in 2004. This year's event marked the second consecutive year that Sui Kiko supported this important cause. The initiative adhered to four basic guidelines set by the Ministry:
1. Do not use tap water directly.
2. No financial costs involved.
3. Participants are encouraged to dress in light, summer wear.
4. Measure the effectiveness of the cooling effect.

Water Week serves as a reminder of the finite nature of our water resources and aims to foster discussions about conservation and the critical importance of water.

Event Details

The main event took place on August 4 at 8:30 AM, starting from the first-floor lobby of the headquarters. Although the primary day of the event was August 4, Uchimizu activities occurred at various locations from August 1 to 7, fostering a collaborative environment across the Sui Kiko branches nationwide.

Key Points of Uchimizu

• - Location: The effectiveness of Uchimizu is heightened in shaded, well-ventilated areas. It is not limited to the ground; walls and other structures can also be treated. The focus should be on modern surfaces that absorb heat, such as concrete and asphalt.
• - Method: While conserving water, it is important to use water responsibly. Utilization of recycled water, such as that from baths, is highly encouraged. Any container, such as buckets or reused plastic bottles, can be employed to sprinkle water lightly over the ground.
• - Timing: Performing Uchimizu during the cooler parts of the day helps reduce evaporation, ensuring the cooling effect lasts longer.

Feedback from Participants

Hiroki Maruyama, Managing Director of Sui Kiko, expressed, “Starting last year, the Uchimizu event aims to ease the intense summer heat through a practice that we cherish as a part of our Japanese heritage. By sprinkling water, we lower the surrounding temperature, reflecting our commitment to environmental sustainability and community connection.”

In his remarks, Maruyama highlighted the dual purpose of the event - serving as a heat mitigation strategy and as a catalyst for reinforcing the importance of water conservation.

Many participants also shared their thoughts:

• - A female employee in her twenties stated, “After the Uchimizu, the temperature dropped significantly. Working for a water-related company, I sometimes forget the significance of Water Day and Week, so this event was a timely reminder.”
• - A male employee in his fifties, a returning participant from last year, remarked, “This event is a great opportunity to reflect on environmental issues and water resources. I hope these efforts expand to the community.”
• - Another 30-year-old female employee appreciated the event, stating, “Having a group event provides a chance to interact with colleagues from different departments and companies.”

About Sui Kiko Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1924, Sui Kiko operates with the mission, “Connecting people and the Earth for a brighter, smiling environment through our technology and products.” With almost a century of involvement in the water industry, the company remains committed to values emphasizing environmental preservation.

Company Details

• - Founded: August 1924
• - Headquarters: Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
• - Employees: 918 (as of March 31, 2025)
• - URL: Sui Kiko Company

Through the Uchimizu initiative, Sui Kiko aims to create a ripple effect, inspiring local youth and communities to actively participate in sustainability efforts. This unified act can foster inter-generational dialogue and promote an understanding of the importance of valuing and managing our water resources effectively.