Innovative Smart Trash Cans Installed in Gion, Kyoto to Combat Waste Challenges

Introduction

ForceTech, a company located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has launched a groundbreaking initiative in Gion, Kyoto. On November 7, 2025, they installed two solar-powered smart trash cans, known as SmaGO, in front of the historic Minami-za Theatre. This remarkable innovation compresses waste to about one-fifth its original volume and incorporates communication management to enhance waste collection efficiency.

Background

As one of the world's premier tourist destinations, Kyoto faces significant challenges related to overtourism, especially concerning waste management. To tackle this growing issue, the SmaGO trash cans have been strategically placed in various areas of the city, including Arashiyama and Gion, showing a positive impact on reducing litter and improving waste collection schedules. The recent addition of SmaGO in Gion aims to further promote responsible waste management in this bustling cultural hub.

Located on Shijo Street, a major thoroughfare in the city, the cyber trash cans serve both locals and tourists visiting iconic sites such as the Minami-za Theatre, Shijo Bridge, Yasaka Shrine, and Kiyomizu Temple. The installation aims to protect the aesthetic appeal of these historic locations while supporting a sustainable tourism environment for all.

The Donation of SmaGO

The deployment of these smart bins is made possible through a joint donation by three Rotary Clubs: Aomori, Odawara, and Kyoto Minami, as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The innovative use of the corporate hometown tax system facilitated this philanthropic activity. A commendation ceremony was held on November 10 at Kyoto City Hall, where Mayor Takaharu Matsui presented a certificate of appreciation to the three Rotary Clubs for their generous contribution.

Future Developments

Looking ahead, ForceTech plans to collaborate with municipalities and local organizations across Japan to further enhance urban beautification and resource recycling efforts using SmaGO technology.

About SmaGO

SmaGO is an environmentally-conscious IoT smart trash can developed by ForceTech. Operating on solar power, it automatically compresses waste to one-fifth of its size and communicates the volume of accumulated waste for efficient collection management. Additionally, the can's exterior can be customized, allowing for awareness campaigns on waste segregation and enabling sponsorship opportunities to lower operational costs. Notably, SmaGO aligns with six of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations.

Impact Examples

- Tokyo's Omotesando-Harajuku Area: Waste collection frequency reduced by approximately 75%.
- Osaka's Dotonbori Area: Around a 90% decrease in littered waste in surrounding areas.

About ForceTech

- Company Name: ForceTech Co., Ltd.
- Founded: April 15, 2019
- Address: 1-2-1 Otemachi One Tower 6F, Chiyoda, Tokyo 100-0004, Japan
- Representative: President Yohei Takemura
- Business Purpose: Proposing environmental activities that unite communities, businesses, and individuals through the installation of smart trash bins (SmaGO) across Japan.
- Official Website: https://forcetec.jp