【Paper】
Analysis of Household Waste Reduction with the Introduction of a Transparent Garbage Bag System
Masako Fukuoka*, Harumi Koizumi*, Hajime Yamakawa** and Hiroshi Takatsuki***
* Architects, Regional Planners & Associates, Kyoto（Osaka branch Office）
** Faculty of Human Environment, Kyoto Prefectural University
*** Environment Preservation Center, Kyoto University
† Correspondence should be addressed to Masako Fukuoka:
Architects, Regional Planners & Associates, Kyoto（Osaka branch Office）
（Sumitomoseimei OBP plaza Bldg. 1-4-70 Shiromi, Chuo-ku Osaka,540-0001 Japan）
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to show the effectiveness of transparent garbage bags in household waste reduction, and to consider whether they merit introduction in the process of reforming waste collection systems. There are many types of household waste collection systems operating in Japan, including the usage of garbage bags. Each local government must decide what kind of garbage bag should be used. Some local governments choose the designated garbage bag system, and others opt for what is called the “free system.” The transparent garbage bag system has more widespread usage in the Kinki area as compared to other areas. Per capita quantities of household waste were compared in 33 cities where either the transparent garbage bag system, the designated garbage bag system, or the free system has been implemented. It was found that the transparent garbage bag system had some effect in reducing household waste. Surveys of household waste before and after the introduction of the transparent garbage bag system in Hirakata City, Osaka, indicated a noticeable reduction in per capita quantities of food waste（excluding unused food）, newspapers, magazines, clothes, and some types of packaging.
Key words: household waste, transparent garbage bag, designated garbage bag, effectiveness of waste reduction, composition of household waste