Tokyo's Smart Trash Bins "SmaGO" Unveils Stunning Winter Designs Featuring Art from Notable Artists

Tokyo's Smart Trash Bins "SmaGO" Unveils Stunning Winter Designs

On January 5, 2026, Tokyo's Omotesando district welcomed a fresh look for its smart trash bins known as "SmaGO". A total of 34 units were adorned with winter-themed art as part of a collaborative effort between Forcetec Co., Ltd. and Heralbony, Inc., aimed at promoting a sustainable society and embracing diversity.

SmaGO Winter Design

A Stylish Makeover

The eye-catching wrap designs were once again conceived by Heralbony, featuring artworks from selected artists whose elements reflect the beauty of winter and themes of new beginnings. This initiative is part of the "Smart Action Project", which strives to redefine waste disposal practices and encourage citizen engagement in creating a circular economy.

Featured Artistic Designs

Two standout pieces include:

- "So-cold crescendo." by Kayano Tanida: An artist from Chiang Mai, Thailand, Tanida’s daily life is reflected in her artwork, illustrating her colorful and vibrant expression through acrylic paints that serve both as her voice and the landscape she perceives.

- "Morning Glow" by Daiki Ito: This artist hails from Saitama and draws inspiration from the majestic views of Mount Fuji, with his art often depicting nature's grandeur. Ito’s dedication to capturing his surroundings is evident, as he spends hours simply observing before bringing his visions to the canvas.

Innovative Waste Management

The SmaGO smart bins, powered by solar energy, automatically compress waste and utilize IoT technology to streamline the collection process. By reducing the frequency of waste collection by approximately 75% in the Omotesando area, these bins signify a remarkable enhancement in urban waste management. Furthermore, they are designed to inform users about proper disposal methods, contributing to the project's goal of fostering responsible waste habits.

Every three months, the designs of the SmaGO bins will be refreshed, introducing new themes that align with seasonal changes, keeping the streets vibrant and engaging for both residents and visitors.

Collaborative Efforts

The sustainability initiative also sees active support from the Japan Special Ceramics Co., Ltd., which began backing the SmaGO project in April 2023, further amplifying the message of a circular economy underlined by responsible waste disposal. With this collaboration, the community is encouraged to view trash bins not merely as waste receptacles but as engaging art installations integrated into the fabric of urban life.

About Heralbony

Founded with the mission of fostering diverse expressions and changing perceptions, Heralbony manages a wealth of over 2,000 art pieces created by artists with disabilities, thus ensuring fair remuneration and promoting a sustainable business model. The company also offers various services linked to creativity, from collaborative projects to art awards, establishing itself as a key player in cultural innovation in Japan.

Final Thoughts

The launch of the winter designs for the SmaGO bins epitomizes the fusion of technology and art, illustrating how community-oriented initiatives can lead to a more sustainable and diverse urban environment. As this project continues to evolve, it promises to inspire not just the local community but also serve as a model for other urban centers looking to blend art with environmental consciousness.

For more information on the project, you can visit the official SmaGO website or contact Forcetec directly. Whether you’re in the area or planning a visit, do not miss the chance to see these unique art installations enriching the Omotesando district.