#Japan #Saitama #Oikura #Market Enterprise #Hasuda Shiraoka

New Reuse Collaboration in Saitama Prefecture

The Hasuda-Shiraoka Sanitation Union, consisting of Hasuda and Shiraoka cities in Saitama Prefecture, has announced a new collaboration with Market Enterprise Co., Ltd., based in Tokyo. This partnership seeks to combat local challenges and promote a circular economy through innovative reuse initiatives. Starting from September 30, 2025, both entities will work together under a collaborative agreement to establish a reuse system that utilizes Market Enterprise's reuse platform, "Oikura."

A Focus on Sustainability

The initiative aims to significantly reduce waste generated in Hasuda and Shiraoka by encouraging the reuse of items that would typically be discarded. The Hasuda-Shiraoka Sanitation Union has been actively involved in environmental education at its facility, Eco-Plaza, where they promote activities related to the 3Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Nonetheless, they identified that many items disposed of in waste could still be reused. To address this, they have collaborated with Market Enterprise, which focuses on sustainable practices and participating in public-private partnerships geared towards achieving SDGs.

About Oikura

Oikura is a platform launched by Market Enterprise, allowing users to easily sell unwanted items. By requesting an evaluation through Oikura, individuals can receive assessment requests sent simultaneously to numerous participating reuse shops across Japan. This unique system allows for convenient comparisons of purchase prices, simplifying the selling process for approximately 1.55 million users as of June 2025.

Website: Oikura

Areas of Collaboration

The agreement encompasses several key areas, including:

• - Promoting reuse activities to contribute to a circular economy.
• - Raising awareness of environmental preservation measures, particularly in developing a sustainable society.
• - Collaborating on initiatives that support ideological and operational alignment concerning environmental sustainability.
• - Any other activities that mutually benefit both the union and Market Enterprise, reinforcing the agreed goals outlined within the partnership.

Future Plans

On September 30 at 15:30 (timing may vary), details about Oikura will be published on the Hasuda-Shiraoka Sanitation Union's website, facilitating direct applications for item assessments. Oikura offers home visits for item collections, making it easier to sell larger and heavier items, including appliances often not picked up by municipal collection services, such as refrigerators and washing machines. Notably, if the items are still usable, there's a chance for them to be bought back, making the reuse process efficient and accessible.

Residents can utilize this service without any costs imposed on the sanitation union. This partnership anticipates the revitalization of the secondary market, which is expected to lead to lower waste disposal volumes and processing costs for local governments. Additionally, it emphasizes the message that the community can opt for reuse instead of disposal, broadening the approaches available for handling unwanted items. By improving residents' awareness and attitudes towards reuse, the initiative aims to facilitate the development of a sustainable society.

Moving forward, Market Enterprise plans to explore additional collaborations with other administrative entities pursuing broader waste reduction strategies and a strengthened circular economy, with local revitalization in mind.
Moreover, the Hasuda-Shiraoka Sanitation Union will continue to play a pivotal role in managing waste and preserving resources, supporting the daily lives of approximately 120,000 residents across both cities.

For more information about Hasuda-Shiraoka Sanitation Union, visit: Hasuda Shiraoka Sanitation Union

Company Overview

Market Enterprise is a leading player in the online reuse sector, operating various services including media, mobile communications, and, primarily, reuse operations. Founded in 2006, the company has expanded significantly, being listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange and is committed to facilitating a sustainable society. They continue to grow their user base and expand their services, striving for a circular economy and contributing to sustainability efforts across Japan.
Website: Market Enterprise