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Revolutionizing Disaster Preparedness with Hygiene Essentials

In September, EthicalJapan, based in Nagoya, Japan, will participate in a significant disaster preparedness event at Hands Shinjuku store. This event aims to combat hygiene-related issues that arise during emergencies, as well as promote innovative products designed to tackle these challenges.

Every year, Japan faces severe disasters that often lead to dire consequences, not just from immediate dangers like building collapses, but also from the aftermath during evacuation, where unsanitary conditions can contribute to complications and even fatalities known as "disaster-related deaths". With the alarming statistics from the 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake, it has become evident that access to clean water for laundry during such crises is crucial yet overlooked.

Understanding this pressing issue, EthicalJapan advocates for a mission to eliminate disaster-related deaths. Their new unique disaster preparedness kits allow individuals to maintain cleanliness using minimal water access during crises. This upcoming event at Hands Shinjuku serves as a prime opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of disaster preparedness and present EthicalJapan's innovative hygiene solutions directly to the public.

Hands Shinjuku Store’s Disaster Event

The Hands store in Shinjuku will host the "Hands Disaster Festival" from September 4 to 7, centered around thoughtful disaster preparedness discussions. Various events scheduled during this time include expert-led talks:

• - September 6: A discussion titled "What to Pack in Disaster Backpacks?" led by advocate Tomoya Takani, sharing insights based on his book, "Disaster Backpack 101."
• - September 7: A talk supporting the Tokyo Disaster College, featuring Eiichiro Inui, editor of the Tokyo Disaster Information magazine, and Yukiko Matsui, a resident affected by the Noto Peninsula earthquake, focusing on lessons to learn from that disaster to prepare for a potential urban earthquake.

These discussions aim to elevate public consciousness regarding disaster readiness and promote actionable preparations.

EthicalJapan's Innovative Products

One of the standout items from EthicalJapan is their multi-functional cleaning agent and specially designed laundry bag set. The launch will be on August 25, 2025, through the crowdfunding platform Makuake, urging the notion of, "Keep Clean, Keep Ready."

Features:

• - User-Friendly: Can clean clothes efficiently with minimal water, essential in areas affected by water shortages during disasters.
• - Safe for All: This agent is free from harmful additives like surfactants, ensuring it is safe for babies and the elderly.
• - Long Shelf Life: With a storage capability of over five years, it is perfect for long-term preparedness.
• - Versatility: Designed to function as an eco-friendly detergent in normal situations while serving as a life-saving cleaning option during emergencies.

EthicalJapan has leveraged personal experiences gained during volunteer activities in areas impacted by the Noto Peninsula earthquake to develop these essential products, ensuring they meet real needs while maintaining environmental responsibility.

Real Life Challenges Faced

Water scarcity is one of the most dominating challenges during disasters, particularly in high-density apartment settings. Residents often recount struggles from our voluntary visits, highlighting the exhausting effort it takes to transport water from supply vehicles. One account detailed an arduous daily routine of hauling 20L containers to provide enough water for household needs, including laundry.
Determining the necessary water for doing laundry highlights the struggle even further. A typical load for a family of four in fully-automatic machines can require around 100L, a figure daunting and demanding significant labor.

Considering the experience of washing clothes in rivers during emergencies, EthicalJapan's solution minimizes water necessities to sustain proper hygiene, drastically reducing the stress associated with water transport and helping save lives.

The Broader Social Impact

EthicalJapan strives for a world without disaster-related deaths, with hygiene being a connecting thread to life. Their commitment revolves around transforming public discourse around emergency preparedness, aiming to equip families, municipalities, and enterprises with innovative solutions that redefine how society approaches readiness in the face of calamity.

For more information about EthicalJapan and their pioneering cleaning products, you can visit their website here or their Makuake project page here.