Lyk and Yamamura Glass Partner for a Unique Recycling Workshop
On August 8, 2025, a day dedicated to promoting reuse, Lyk Corporation and Yamamura Glass Company collaborated to host an engaging workshop focused on the recycling of plastic bottle caps for young children at the Nijiiro Hoikuen Kameido nursery in Tokyo. This initiative aimed to educate children on the importance of recycling, transforming waste materials into valuable resources.
A Day of Learning and Fun
The workshop welcomed 15 enthusiastic kiddos from the nursery, providing them with a hands-on learning experience. Attendees were treated to an informative slideshow highlighting how sorting and collecting plastic bottle caps can provide them with new life and purpose.
During the event, children had the opportunity to play with the capsule toy, "Chikyu Gacha Model-S," which utilized collected bottle caps instead of coins. This innovative toy allowed children to exchange their gathered caps for fun items, reinforcing the cycle of recycling in a playful context. The upcycled prizes included magnets and vinyl bags, helping young participants grasp the concept of transforming recycled materials into useful goods.
Background on the Workshop’s Origin
Lyk Corporation, which operates various kindergartens and childcare facilities, has been proactively involved in recycling initiatives, particularly focusing on the collection of plastic bottle caps. Their commitment to environmental sustainability led them to explore partnerships with organizations like Yamamura Glass, known for its dedication to recycling efforts. The collaboration resulted in this creative workshop, aiming to further educate and engage the community in recycling practices.
Future Aspirations
The Lyk Group currently collects plastic bottle caps in seven locations, including childcare and nursing facilities, with plans to expand their collection points. This initiative underscores their long-term vision of fostering environmental awareness among future generations.
Yamamura Glass, with over a century of experience, continues to innovate in promoting a sustainable future. Their efforts align with their newly established project, "RIN – Recycle Innovation in the New Normal," which seeks to enhance plastic recycling efforts by transforming used plastic bottle caps into new products and resources.
The company’s commitment to Earth Care revolves around reducing environmental impact and developing products that are beneficial to society. They aim to maintain their relevance in future generations by focusing on environmentally friendly practices and socially responsible innovations.
RIN: A New Era of Recycling
The RIN project, which originated from the "bottle-to-bottle" concept, broadens the potential uses of used plastic bottle caps. This initiative goes beyond simple recycling by designing a holistic approach to product development, from collection to regeneration and reuse. RIN actively seeks new partners who share their vision and are eager to co-create value in the recycling landscape.
For more information, you can visit the
RIN official website.
The Chikyu Gacha
The capsule toy system, "Chikyu Gacha," uses bottle caps instead of coins to dispense exciting, upcycled gifts. Starting September 2, 2024, the Chikyu Gacha Model-L will be permanently displayed at the Osaka ATC Green Eco Plaza, marking a significant step in promoting this fun and eco-friendly recycling method in Japan.
The event and its photos were shared with the consent of attendees and their guardians, ensuring a supportive and joyful atmosphere for everyone involved.
For further inquiries about this workshop or related activities, please contact:
Yamamura Glass Co., Ltd.
Plastic Company Earth Care Promotion Group
[email protected]