MyMizu, Our Japan

The article centers on an app, MyMizu and its mission in trying to increase sustainable practices in Japan. The app directs people to nearby water refilling stations— public fountains as well as private eateries—to reduce plastic consumption and disposal. Reaching unexpected popularity, the app has more than 8,000 stations logged, and counting.

The co-creator was quoted saying the following in regards to why he made the app, “There is a lack of refill points…If you walk around Shinjuku Station, you can’t find one.” This reason posed an interesting question. Why is the emphasis placed on refill stations, rather than putting more garbage bins?

This is due a terrorist attack that occurred in 1995 in Tokyo. A cult group released Sarin gas in multiple Tokyo subway stations resulting in the death of 13 and injuries to over 6,300 people. The group brought in the gas through plastic bags and punctured them inside trains. Seeing trashcans as another place where dangerous substances such as Sarin bags could be deposited, the city removed most public trash cans.

Coming back to the original point, with the Olympics quickly approaching, the traffic around Japan will skyrocket. This will lead to increased consumption of drinks, and therefore increased consumption of plastic. 

Personally, I believe the advent of MyMizu comes at a perfect time to bring light to sustainability in Japan. With many international events occurring within the next year, such as the Olympics and Rugby World Cup, Japan has dawned an introspective lens. In order to benefit from this ‘tourism’, Japan has been made to confront its image and values. One such value that it has long struggled with is environmental sustainability. Japan produces the second largest plastic waste per capita, and all these large-scale events will only exacerbate that. By riding this “wave of awareness”, MyMizu has been able to garner more popularity while publicly touting its message.

Interestingly however, is the delineation between large corporate organizations and companies like MyMizu. Even though the message and goals seemingly align themselves, Coca-Cola is hesitant to form any formal association with the company. I believe that the current trend in the market is organizations with a cause. The article cited the example of Patagonia and how its “sustainable” brand is appealing to people. People have already started victimizing large corporations for their lack of empathy and industrial nature. This is yet another quality that companies such as MyMizu can take advantage of. And if it is their true intention, can galvanize people to changing their value system.