#Japan #Tokyo #Food Waste #Kuradashi #mottECO

Introduction

Kuradashi, a company dedicated to combatting food waste, has recently been selected by Japan's Ministry of the Environment to participate in the mottECO model project aimed at reducing food waste through consumer engagement. This initiative supports the use of takeaway options for leftover food, thereby promoting a culture of sustainability.

Background on the Initiative

The mottECO model project is part of the Ministry’s broader strategy to tackle food waste in the food service and retail industries. It encourages methods like adopting takeaway options for leftovers, which align with the mottECO vision. The term "mottECO" cleverly combines the phrases "more eco" and "let's take it home," which encapsulates the project's objective to normalize the practice of taking home uneaten meals from restaurants.

Noteworthy Proposal

In line with its mission to operate as a social good company, Kuradashi has put forward its own proposal as part of the mottECO initiative, focusing on practical guidelines for promoting food takeaways. The company is committed to significantly lowering food waste by buying up those items that are still consumable but face challenges in conventional sales due to factors like impending expiration dates or packaging damages. By selling these items through its own platform, Kuradashi not only contributes to food waste reduction but also funds various social causes through their profits.

Event Plans

Kuradashi, along with the mottECO consortium, will host events aimed at raising awareness about food sustainability practices. The upcoming event titled "Let’s Eliminate Food Waste! mottECO FESTA 2025" is scheduled for July 1, 2025, at the Hotel Metropolitan Edmont in Tokyo. This free event will include panel discussions, presentations, and booths from various stakeholders in government, industry, and academia, all working towards culinary sustainability. Attendees can expect to engage with experts and sample "what a waste" menus designed to highlight underappreciated food items.

Kuradashi's Dual Approach

Kuradashi’s approach includes two primary areas of focus:
1. Guideline Dissemination: Successfully collaborating with 33 local governments, Kuradashi will promote awareness of the mottECO guidelines among smaller restaurants and independent hotels. This interaction is intended to foster sustainable practices and extend the reach of food waste reduction efforts throughout the community.
2. Online Campaigns: During the designated food waste reduction month, Kuradashi will launch a series of online initiatives. The campaigns will be featured across their website and social media channels, urging consumers to become familiar with mottECO practices and to adopt takeaway guidelines.

The Committee's Role

The "Food Takeaway Guideline Promotion Committee," a collaborative effort between Kuradashi and the mottECO consortium, serves as the driving force behind this initiative. Combining the efforts of various stakeholders, including hotels, food service providers, and local authorities, this committee has established an alliance that emphasizes cooperation between industry and academia in addressing food waste.

About Kuradashi

Founded in July 2014 and headquartered in Tokyo, Kuradashi operates as a social good marketplace that aims to minimize food waste. By offering discounted food items that are still safe to consume, Kuradashi not only provides consumers with bargains but also supports environmental organizations and disaster relief efforts through its profits. With a proven track record of reducing 28,365 tons of food waste as of March 2025, Kuradashi represents a critical player in Japan’s food sustainability landscape.

Conclusion

Kuradashi's commitment to environmental sustainability and food waste reduction has gained attention and support from the Japanese government. Their innovative projects and community engagement initiatives promise to create a more sustainable food culture in Japan, demonstrating how businesses can lead by example in social responsibility.