#Japan #Osaka #Osaka Expo #Sumikko Gurashi #Metacol

Sumikko Gurashi Takes Center Stage at the Osaka Expo with Metacol™ Collaboration

In an innovative move towards sustainability, Sumikko Gurashi has been announced as the special ambassador for Metacol™, a revolutionary material developed from CO2 components. This collaboration was unveiled on August 16, during the kickoff of the "MAIDO MUIC!" exhibition at the Osaka Kansai Expo Festival Station. The event focuses on environmental solutions and exhibits at the Kansai Innovation Center, where various projects aimed at sustainable futures will be showcased. This marks the first time Sumikko Gurashi, beloved for their relatable and whimsical characters, will participate in an Expo, seamlessly merging fun with environmental responsibility.

Metacol™, developed by Sumitomo Electric Industries, captures and reuses atmospheric CO2 to create eco-conscious products, aligning perfectly with the growing emphasis on environmental sustainability. During the Osaka Expo, visitors will be treated to a special display featuring a unique Sumikko Nebuta, a collaborative art piece that exemplifies upcycled products collected from Kidiland stores across Osaka, showcasing the charm and ingenuity of both brands.

Sumikko Gurashi at the Expo: What to Expect

Mark your calendars for August 23rd, when Sumikko Gurashi characters Tokage and Shirokuma will greet fans at the Expo Festival Station! They will appear at two specific times, 2:00 PM and 3:30 PM, for a delightful meet-and-greet experience, adding a sprinkle of joy and excitement to the event.

Starting from August 24th, there will be a limited release of exclusive Sumikko Gurashi sand visors made from the same sustainable materials showcased, offering fans a chance to take home a piece of this initiative. Additionally, innovative products designed by Maiko Mizuno, a young entrepreneur who founded the company Maiyaringus, will also be featured. Her unique non-ear wearable earrings made in collaboration with Sumikko Gurashi are set to impress attendees.

The Innovative Project: MAIDO MUIC!

Organized by the Kansai Innovation Center, "MAIDO MUIC!" serves as a platform for showcasing various collaborative efforts addressing social issues through innovation, spanning themes like tourism, environment, health, and entertainment. The event runs from August 16-18 and August 23-25, featuring interactive installations, video displays, and a chance for visitors to engage with the exhibition in a hands-on manner.

The Future of Materials: Metacol™

Metacol™ represents a significant stride towards carbon neutrality. By trapping CO2 within metal structures and melding it with recycled plastics and paper, this technology aims not just for carbon neutrality, but a proactive carbon-negative future. This remarkable innovation symbolizes a commitment to environmental stewardship and paves the way for future developments in sustainable materials.

About Sumikko Gurashi

Sumikko Gurashi, which translates to "living in the corners," was established in 2012 with the tagline "This is where I feel at ease." These cute yet slightly melancholic characters resonate with many, representing a unique emotional connection that many people feel in their own lives. From their bit of negativity to surreal charm, these characters encapsulate the idea of seeking comfort in quiet corners of cafes and trains—a sentiment shared widely in Japanese culture. For more information, check their official profile here.

Stay Updated with Sumikko Gurashi

For fans eager to learn about the latest merchandise and event details, Sumikko Gurashi's presence can be followed through their social media platforms. Regular updates about new products and campaigns can be found on their official Twitter and the San-X website.

More About San-X

San-X is known for creating over a thousand original characters, including Rilakkuma and Sumikko Gurashi, continuously enchanting audiences worldwide. Their characters, while adorable, are also infused with humor, offering comfort and connection, making them deeply beloved in popular culture. You can learn more about San-X and their charming creations on their company page.

Join us for this remarkable event at the Osaka Expo, where creativity meets sustainability, and discover how conservation and fun can harmoniously coexist!