The Japan Franchise Association announced on May 29, 2006 that 12 major operators of convenience stores have set up five-year plans to reduce the consumption of plastic bags. Starting on June 1, 2006, they will eventually reduce the total consumption in each store by 35 percent by 2010, as compared with 2000 levels.

They are driving forward the reduction plan by such specific measures as; asking customers buying fewer items to have store stickers placed on them instead of having them packed in plastic bags (the stickers indicate that the item has been paid for); and promoting simpler packaging by in-store announcements and/or posters.

Each convenience store chain has been conducting its own campaigns to reduce consumption of plastic bags since fiscal 2000, when the Containers and Packaging Recycling Law was fully enacted. By introducing thinner plastic bags, ensuring the use of appropriate bag sizes, and asking their customers for cooperation in reducing plastic bag use, the 12 operators achieved an average reduction of 15 percent in fiscal 2004, as compared with the amounts used in fiscal 2000. The five-year plan aims to achieve a 20 percent cut in fiscal 2006.

http://jfa.jfa-fc.or.jp/about_jfa_English.html
- Environment Ministry Sponsors Eco-Friendly Shopping Campaign (Related JFS article)
http://www.japanfs.org/db/1249-e
- Environment Ministry Sponsors Eco-Friendly Shopping Campaign (Related JFS article)
http://www.japanfs.org/db/1249-e

Posted: 2006/08/16 09:40:25 AM
Japanese version

TAG Material reduction , Non-manufacturing industry