What Japan teaches us about sustainability

Did you know that one reusable bottle can replace thousands of plastic bottles? In this article you will discover how small choices can make a big impact - exactly what Retulp stands for. During a trip of our colleague Manon to Japan this became even more clear. For how much we can learn from this extraordinary country in the field of sustainability.

Japan and sustainability: a culture of respect

Japan is known worldwide for its technological innovation, but there is another thing that stands out as soon as you step into the country: order, cleanliness and respect for the environment. This is deeply woven into Japanese culture - and it leads to fascinating sustainable habits that we in the Netherlands could learn something from.

No bin? No trash!

One of the first things you notice in Japan: there are hardly any trash cans on the streets. Yet nowhere is it dirty. That's because Japanese are used to taking their trash home with them. It is the norm, not the exception. And anyone who carelessly throws something away risks a fine.

Sustainable lesson: Conscious waste management starts with yourself.

Eating, drinking and smoking? Not on the street!

In Japan, eating or drinking in public is rarely done. Not because it is forbidden, but out of politeness and respect. Similarly, smoking is done only in designated areas. The result? Less litter, less nuisance and a cleaner streetscape.

Sustainable lesson: behavioral norms affect our carbon footprint more than we think.

Toilets with a vision of the future

Even toilets are sustainable in Japan. Many toilets feature built-in bidet systems, drastically reducing the use of toilet paper. And while it may take some getting used to for us Dutch, it is more hygienic and environmentally friendly.

Sustainable lesson: Technology and sustainability go hand in hand - even in places where you don't immediately expect it.

Bento boxes: sustainable lunch culture

In Japan, it is quite normal to take your lunch with you in a reusable bento box. These drums are not only stylish, but also cleverly designed: small portions, little waste and no disposable packaging. Fast food, on the other hand, is less common.

Sustainable lesson: reusable packaging like bento boxes and lunch boxes make sustainable lunch easy and fun.

Waste separation as an art of living

Japanese separate waste in an unprecedentedly detailed way. In some municipalities, there are more than 10 waste categories, from PET bottles to metal caps. And those who get it wrong simply get their trash back.

Sustainable lesson: waste is not junk, but a resource treated with care.

Mottainai: respect for stuff

The word mottainai is difficult to translate, but it means something like "sin to waste." This philosophy of life encourages people to take good care of things, reuse and avoid waste. It fits with a minimalist lifestyle.

Sustainable lesson: buy less and appreciate more - now that's sustainable.

Green mobility as standard

Sustainable transportation is not a trend in Japan, but practice. Think of the Shinkansen (high-speed trains), the extensive subway network, hybrid cars and the electric bicycle popular everywhere.

Sustainable lesson: comfortable travel and eco-friendly transportation can go together perfectly.

What can we learn from these?

We don't all have to immediately install Japanese toilets or ban waste bins. But the mentality behind these choices - taking responsibility for your behavior and environment - is something we can adopt.

Small behavioral changes, big impact

• Always bring a reusable bottle, cup or lunchbox
• Don't leave waste, even if there is no trash can nearby
• Choose products with less or reusable packaging
• Reuse, repair and appreciate what you already have
• Travel more often by bike, train or on foot

How Retulp contributes to this mentality

At Retulp, we believe sustainability starts with everyday habits. Our reusable bottles, cups and lunch products make it easy and attractive to live more consciously. Do you choose a product from Retulp? Then you not only help towards a plastic-free Netherlands, but also contribute to clean drinking water projects worldwide.

Did you know that for every bottle sold, we donate 1000x the contents to clean drinking water projects in developing countries?

By choosing more consciously, together we make a difference. Just like in Japan.

Do like Japan - choose consciously with Retulp

Do you also want to contribute to a cleaner world, just like the Japanese do? Start today with small sustainable choices. Choose a reusable bottle, cup or lunchbox from Retulp.

Browse the collection and make a difference - over and over again.