17 diverse international university students are participating, and the following is their reporting.
Kamikatsu is a small Japanese town in Tokushima prefecture with a bold mission: to become zero-waste. Since 2003, the town has successfully reduced its waste, while pushing its recycling rate to over 80% by encouraging residents to sort materials into 45 categories for recycling. Visiting the Kamikatsu Zero Waste Center is a unique experience, where visitors can witness this sustainable way of life in action and learn how producers and consumers can reduce their environmental impact. The Center in the shape of WHY, appears in the stunning mountain scenery, attracts eco-conscious travelers, and questions “why” to our way of life.
Are you familiar with Kamikatsu’s “Irodori” leaf business? “Irodori” sells seasonal leaves that are used to garnish traditional Japanese dishes. In Kamikatsu, around 40 farmers carefully grow a wide variety of plants in their home gardens. One leaf farmer, Nitta-san, shared, “I package each leaf with great care, putting myself in the buyer’s shoes and thinking about how the customer would feel.”
On our final evening in Kamikatsu, we enjoyed a “Zero Waste Dinner” by food creator Miica Fran. She explained that “a meal is a time when people can connect with nature,” and prepared a five-course meal using organic, locally-sourced ingredients. Under a sky full of stars, surrounded by mountains, we partook in nature’s abundance and were reminded that we, too, share this Earth. It was a truly special experience.
Through exploring the town’s zero waste initiatives, the thriving Irodori business, and various educational experiences that foster deeper connections between people and nature, we learned that Kamikatsu’s approach to zero waste is not just about reducing waste—it’s about rethinking how we live. In a world driven by mass consumerism, Kamikatsu shows us new ways of living and being that prioritize care for the environment and community. A heartfelt thank you to the INOW team for hosting us and to everyone in Kamikatsu for warmly welcoming us during our stay!
(Reported by the participants)
