#Japan #Tokyo #KDDI #Forcetec #Weecle

Innovative Recycling with 'Weecle'

The newly launched AI recycling box, 'Weecle Technology by Bin-e,' was introduced at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's lithium-ion battery collection campaign, titled 'Excavating Resources from Tokyo Mine.' This remarkable initiative is a collaboration between Forcetec Inc. and KDDI Corporation, aimed at promoting the proper collection and recycling of small rechargeable electronic devices, such as mobile phones and battery packs, within the Tokyo metropolis. The 'Weecle' was revealed to the public during this campaign.

The Initiative Behind 'Weecle'

Tokyo's collection campaign seeks to facilitate the appropriate sorting of lithium-ion batteries and promote resource recovery from various electronic devices. By partnering with municipal authorities and businesses, this initiative aims to turn potential waste into valuable resources, thereby enhancing recycling efforts.

Forcetec and KDDI are playing pivotal roles in this campaign, establishing the 'Weecle' box at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building. The introduction of this technology is not only a step toward effective recycling but also a measure to prevent potential fire hazards caused by the improper disposal of lithium-ion batteries. This project marks the first case of Tokyo's new startup strategy initiated by the Tokyo Startup Strategy Promotion Headquarters.

In addition, KDDI will host an event called the 'Memory Phone Restart Event', encouraging participants to revive their old mobile phones and reminisce about memories stored on these devices. This event will be held at the same venue as the 'Weecle' installation.

Details of the Campaign

1. Purpose: The 'Weecle' AI recycling box will be set up at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building in Shinjuku as a collection point for small rechargeable electronic devices.
2. Duration: The installation will be available from June 26, 2026, to September 30, 2026, from 9 AM to 5 PM daily, including weekends and holidays.
3. Location: First floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building, adjacent to the National Tourism PR Corner.
4. Accepted Items: The recycling box can accept small rechargeable electronic devices fitting through a slot measuring 23.5 cm x 21 cm x 33 cm, including:
- Used mobile phones and smartphones
- Mobile battery packs
- Heated tobacco products
- Digital cameras
- Handheld fans
- Wireless earphones
- Gaming consoles
- Electric toothbrushes
- Electric shavers

About 'Weecle Technology by Bin-e'

Developed by the Polish company Bin-e, 'Weecle' utilizes exceptional AI image recognition technology for efficient automated sorting. This advanced recycling box not only aids in the precise collection and sorting of recyclable materials but also enhances operational efficiency through data visualization capabilities. Equipped with real-time communication features, the recycling box allows monitoring of fill levels and collection status, thus streamlining the recycling process.

Furthermore, 'Weecle' includes fireproof containers and fire-extinguishing films to ensure the safe collection of small rechargeable devices.

Contributors to the Initiative

• - Tokyo Metropolitan Government: In charge of executing the initiative and raising awareness among citizens.
• - Forcetec: Responsible for providing and operating the AI recycling boxes.
• - KDDI: Facilitates the collection and recycling of used mobile phones and smartphones while organizing the 'Memory Phone Restart Event'.
• - VOLTA: Handles recycling for mobile battery packs, heated tobacco products, and other lithium-ion batteries.

'Memory Phone Restart Event'

Hosted by KDDI, the 'Memory Phone Restart Event' allows participants to reminisce about old mobile phones by reviving them and reflecting on the memories stored inside. This provides a comforting approach to parting with used phones and facilitates their recycling.
- Event Duration: June 27, 2026 - June 29, 2026
- Location: First floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building, next to the PR Corner.
- Participation: Free and requires prior reservation. More information can be found here.
- Eligibility: Mobile phones that no longer turn on, particularly older models with removable batteries, but smartphones and tablets are excluded.

Future Prospects

Forcetec plans to expand the 'Weecle' initiative beyond the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building, targeting areas such as train stations, convenience stores, and commercial facilities. The goal is to create a comprehensive system for the large-scale and secure collection of old mobile phones and other small electronic devices, ensuring their recycling is safe and efficient.

About Forcetec

With the motto “Harnessing the Power of Circulation,” Forcetec aims to redefine society by turning technology into a force for recycling rather than depleting limited natural resources. The company focuses on sustainable solutions, including 'Weecle' and other smart waste management technologies, to collaborate with various stakeholders in realizing a sustainable society.

• - Company: Forcetec Inc.
• - Founded: April 15, 2019
• - Address: 6th Floor, Otemachi One Tower, 1-2-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0004, Japan
• - CEO: Yohei Takemura
• - Website: Forcetec Official Website

Inquiries

For more information, please contact:
Forcetec Inc. Public Relations
Phone: 03-3453-7140
Contact Form: Click Here