#Japan #Oikura #Market Enterprise #Chiryu #Chiryu City

Collaboration for a Sustainable Future

Chiryu City, located in Aichi Prefecture, has taken a significant step towards environmental sustainability by formally partnering with Market Enterprise. This collaboration, initiated by Mayor Tomoko Ishikawa, aims to address pressing local issues through a shared reuse project. Starting November 18, 2025, the two entities will work together using the 'Oikura' platform to recycle unwanted items, promoting waste reduction and the establishment of a cyclical society in Chiryu.

Background of the Initiative

In recent years, Chiryu City has taken various initiatives aimed at increasing awareness about sustainable practices. This includes organizing reuse markets and providing information on unwanted item transfers through promotional materials and online platforms in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, the city faced challenges. Rising waste management costs and the growing realization that many items being discarded were still reusable prompted officials to consider innovative local measures to enhance reuse efforts. Simultaneously, Market Enterprise has been focused on developing online reuse platforms as a part of its mission to foster a sustainable society. Their longstanding participation in collaborative SDG initiatives and local revitalization efforts made them an ideal partner for Chiryu. Thus, an agreement was formed to leverage the Oikura platform for this noble cause.

Understanding 'Oikura'

'Oikura' is Market Enterprise's sophisticated reuse platform aimed at simplifying the process for individuals looking to sell their unwanted goods. Users can request assessments online, which allows for a competitive evaluation from various certified reuse shops across Japan. With over 1.55 million users benefiting from its streamlined service, Oikura has become a notable player in the reuse market. The platform not only enables quick price comparison but also offers flexibility in terms of selling options, making it popular amongst consumers.

How Chiryu City Aims to Address Its Challenges

Chiryu City currently manages bulky waste collection through scheduled paid services, requiring residents to transport large items themselves. Accessibility has been a key concern. However, the introduction of 'Oikura' will allow residents to have large and heavy items picked up directly from their homes. This extended service ensures that even appliances regulated under the Home Appliance Recycling Law can be assessed and potentially sold if they are still functioning.

Moreover, this new partnership promises rapid transactions. Residents can expect that through Oikura, some items may be sold on the same day they make a request. Notably, there will be no additional service costs for citizens, further incentivizing participation in this waste reduction initiative.

Future Deployments

On November 18, 2025, at 3:30 PM JST, Chiryu City plans to launch a dedicated webpage providing information about the Oikura service. Residents will have direct access to request bulk assessments for their unwanted items. Through this partnership with Oikura, Chiryu City expects to enhance the secondhand market's activity. This not only promotes a circular economy but significantly contributes to lowering waste volumes and associated management costs for the municipality. Additionally, the initiative provides opportunities for the community to opt for reuse over disposal, consequently addressing varied disposal needs.

This collaborative approach between the public and private sectors aims to champion a shift in cultural attitudes toward reuse, reinforcing community efforts towards establishing a sustainable circular economy.

About Chiryu City

Established in 1970, Chiryu City is located in the heart of Aichi Prefecture, approximately 25 kilometers from Nagoya’s city center. Its strategic position makes it an essential transportation hub, featuring seamless access via major highways and rail systems. Historically, Chiryu thrived as a vital crossroads, dating back to the Kamakura period with its ancient roads and paths, and boasts rich cultural heritage, including UNESCO-recognized festivals.

With a population of 72,763 as of September 1, 2025, the city continues to evolve while promoting community-driven initiatives that uphold its cultural and sustainable values.