Transforming society as a whole through the awareness and actions of each worker
Now that we are in a period of transition to a sustainable social and economic system, it is extremely important for us as a supply chain to consider sustainable ways of living, preserving the global environment, and the state of business and social systems in our connections with other companies and local communities. We believe this is a valuable step that will contribute to the sustainable development of business, sustainable local communities, and the promotion of the formation of a circular economy.
At Yinyang, the goal of zero waste is to not emit harmful substances, not cause air pollution, and not waste resources. At the same time, we also consider localism and low environmental impact as important points.
Low cost, low impact, low
Our fundamental approach is to not rely on advanced technology, and each and every staff member is consciously committed to achieving zero waste in the supply chain.
The annual domestic supply of clothing is about 2.9 billion items. Meanwhile, consumption is estimated at about 1.4 billion items, with the majority of the remaining 1.5 billion items being incinerated as surplus inventory. Globally, the fashion industry dumps about 500,000 tons of microfibers into the ocean every year, accounting for 10% of the world's annual carbon dioxide emissions, and is predicted to increase to 50% by 2030.
Each of these issues needs to be addressed from multiple angles. There are many solutions, including reducing the amount of clothing that is incinerated, reducing the amount of water used in production and water pollution, and preventing soil pollution caused by the use of pesticides. At Yinyang, we are considering a system for distributing clothing while reducing the environmental impact from production to disposal.
Manufacturing Initiatives
Use of natural materials
We aim to reduce soil pollution by using organic cotton and hemp materials, which have a low environmental impact.
Natural dyeing
By using vegetable dyes instead of chemicals, we aim to reduce water pollution.
Use of recycled materials
By producing our products using recycled materials derived from plastic and plants, we are reducing resource depletion.
Transportation Initiatives
Eliminate plastic bags
We have eliminated the individual packaging in plastic bags used when shipping from the sewing factory and instead deliver the items wrapped in leftover fabric.
Delivery in reusable materials
We use shipping boxes and recycled boxes for delivery to business partners.
Use of plant-based bags
When shipping products from our online store, we use bags made from cassava (the raw material for tapioca) which can be recycled back into the soil.
Initiatives in the office
Garbage fragmentation
All office trash bins are in one place, and trash is separated into six different categories.
Reducing waste during meals
We encourage staff to bring their own lunches and bottles, and we are working on creating vegetable gardens using compost.
Digitalization Recommendations
We are in the process of digitizing documents and materials for stores and business partners, as well as staff business cards.
In-store initiatives
Simple store design
We strive to create store designs that utilize natural materials and recycled fixtures.
Eliminate excess packaging
We have eliminated the use of shopping bags, shopping cards and flyers and are now selling detergent and other items by weight.
Lifestyle suggestions
We have registered the water supply spot mymizu and regularly hold a plastic-free market called "naked market."
Zero Waste Certification Items
During delivery, we use reusable materials and simpler packaging to reduce waste.
By working with our suppliers, we have eliminated individual packaging at the time of purchase. After importing, we are able to use reusable packaging by wrapping the products in cloth when receiving them from the inspection company. When consigning products, we use reusable trunks, and minimize the amount of packaging used when shipping to customers.
We incorporate and utilize unused resources that would become waste if left as is, as well as materials that can be repaired and recycled, into our stores.
The store is located in a vacant property that has been renovated, making maximum use of fixtures that were originally in the property and old materials that were donated to the store. The store is also committed to using equipment that is easy to repair, maintain, and recycle, such as racks that can be easily removed and collapsible tables.
The store actively stocks products that utilize recycled and upcycled materials.
The yoga mats are made from recycled rubber. In addition to developing novelties using scraps, the company is continually increasing its efforts, such as developing products from fabric that was cut incorrectly.
We are reducing waste generation by reducing the amount of paper and supplies used in our daily operations and using alternatives.
Documents are basically electronic. Receipts are basically not printed out and can be sent electronically. It's good that catalogs and other documents can be viewed online. It's also good that you can choose whether or not to include a leaflet when ordering online.
We offer a range of repair and maintenance services to ensure your products last a long time.
They provide a service to re-dye products using natural dyes. They also sell dyeing kits. They provide good information on their website about how to care for and maintain their products.
There are mechanisms in place that allow users to learn about zero waste and get involved in the initiative.
The store uses its space to hold a Naked Market, where they sell by weight and practice reuse. They also encourage customers to bring their own containers. It's great that they also publicize their zero waste efforts on their website.
Businesses and employees understand zero waste and are taking concrete steps to reduce the amount of waste they produce.
Staff members generate less waste by using lunch boxes, reusable bottles, and reusable cups. The number of trash bins in the office has been reduced, and waste separation has been thoroughly promoted.
Zero Waste Japan General Incorporated Association
In addition to the conventional recycling-centered "no waste" model, we are also working on a "no waste generation" model (a circular production, distribution, and sales model and product design for that purpose).
We aim to make "zero waste" a global standard, and create opportunities to put "zero waste" into practice with stakeholders in both the public and private sectors. We support municipalities, regions, and companies in shifting to waste reduction and resource circulation systems.
