Zero Waste Life

Substandard fabric from Himei Akira's dye works is now being made into a new composite material. With its wood-grain pattern, it's useful in everything from furniture to small accessories.

Kojima Sachiyo runs a different sort of bar. Customers make small items out of scrap material. Finding new appreciation for things once seen as disposable, all while enjoying a drink with friends.

Clockmaker Takumi Ada spends his days repairing clocks damaged in a massive earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula in 2024. He also helps the clocks' owners recover some of the time they've lost.

Nearly everything the Sakamoto family eats they produce themselves, collecting local food waste to feed their pigs, and using solar power. A zero waste life cycle that also makes for a happy family.

Potters Matsubara Emi and Matsushita Ryohei use waste from their island home, bean pods, seashells, and even animal bones, in their work. A deep respect for the island helps them convey its beauty.

Abashiri is known for drift ice. Local Glass artisan Gunji Noboru uses recycled fluorescent bulbs to make eco-friendly art inspired by the natural environment while striving to reduce his energy use.

Taoda Ayane does amazing things with milk cartons, transforming them into accessories, bags, and even clothing. The cartons are also strong and water-resistant, so her creations are practical, too.