#Japan #Tokyo #Eco Project #i-City #Anabuki Housing

Introduction

In a forward-thinking collaboration, HOYA Corporation's i-City, known for its specialized contact lens products, has joined hands with Anabuki Housing Service to launch an innovative recycling initiative aimed to collect used disposable contact lens cases. This partnership, set to commence in September 2025, underscores a commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement.

Background of the Initiative

HOYA Corporation's i-City has long been committed to reducing environmental impact through its ‘i-City eco project.’ This initiative seeks to promote a circular economy through recycling efforts, with a focus on reducing, reusing, and recycling materials. Anabuki Housing Service, celebrated for its dedication to community welfare, aligns perfectly with this vision. Together, they aim to address growing environmental concerns while fostering a more sustainable society.

This initiative is particularly notable as it targets around 220,000 households across various condominiums managed by Anabuki Housing Service nationwide. The project represents a significant step toward engaging communities in environmental conservation through practical recycling solutions.

Project Overview

The following outlines the key details of the collaboration:

• - Launch Date: The recycling program will begin in September 2025, with gradual implementation across the targeted condominiums.
• - Collection Points: BIM, approximately 220,000 households will have special collection boxes set up in their local condominiums to facilitate the recycling process.
• - Roles and Responsibilities: Anabuki Housing Service will handle publicizing the initiative and managing the collection of the used cases. In contrast, HOYA will provide logistical support, including supplying collection boxes and managing the recyclable resources.

The i-City Eco Project Explained

The 'i-City eco project' was initiated in 2010, marking a pioneering effort in the industry to promote the recycling of disposable contact lens cases. The goal is to facilitate the collection of empty cases from approximately 7,520 locations nationwide, including i-City stores, schools, municipalities, and partner businesses. The project encompasses three core social contributions:
1. Environmental conservation through resource recycling,
2. Supporting independence and employment for individuals with disabilities,
3. Donations to the Japan Eye Bank Association to assist those wishing to regain their eyesight.

Since its inception, this project has garnered substantial support from various organizations, municipalities, and customers alike, establishing a broad network for collection activities. Empty cases, regardless of where they were purchased, are sold to recycling firms, and the earnings are donated to the Japan Eye Bank Association, contributing to vision restoration efforts. However, it's critical to note that approximately 4,000 tons of such waste are still disposed of as garbage each year. Therefore, the continuous expansion of this initiative is vital to enhance community involvement and further societal contributions.

Participation Status as of August 2025

• - Educational Institutions: 3,262 locations (across elementary, junior high, high schools, universities, and vocational schools).
• - Businesses: 1,277 firms with 3,802 collection points (including offices and branches).
• - Municipalities: 465 locations (including public facilities).

Organizations interested in supporting this collection initiative are encouraged to participate and join the advancing movement towards sustainability.

Recycled Volume and Donation Statistics (as of August 2025)

• - Total Recycled Material: 797.83 tons (equivalent to approximately 797 million empty contact lens cases).
• - CO2 Emission Reduction: Contributed to a reduction of 2,202.01 tons of CO2 emissions (the equal of around 131.9 Tokyo Domes).
• - Total Donations: ¥17,712,368 has been donated.

Collection Process

Detailed information on the collection and recycling process will be outlined closer to the launch date. HOYA's extensive reach and resources promise a robust framework for this initiative.

About HOYA Corporation's i-City

As a leader in the fields of life care and information communications, HOYA Corporation operates multiple top-tier brands, with its contact lens specialist store, i-City, being a key segment. The company boasts a solid management foundation and is committed to achieving steady growth while meeting significant challenges in the industry.

Company Overview

• - Company Name: HOYA Corporation, Eye Care Division
• - Headquarters: 4-10-2 Nakano, Nakano Central Park South 6F, Nakano City, Tokyo, Japan
• - Business Type: Sales of contact lenses and related products
• - Number of i-City Stores: Currently, 375 stores (as of September 1, 2025).
• - Official Website: i-City Eco Project