This photo is somewhat different from the refuse compactors (garbage trucks) one often sees on the streets, isn’t it? Upon close inspection, it is clear that part of the body is transparent (polycarbonate resin).​​​​​​

This is a refuse compactor for environmental study that was specially produced to help children learn about the environment. Portions of the sides and other sections are transparent, allowing visitors to gain a close-up view of how collected waste is compacted inside the vehicle.

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the business, we decided to donate a specially designed refuse compactor to Takarazuka City (Hyogo Prefecture), the location of our Head Office. In February 2020, we presented Mayor Nakagawa with a certificate indicating the gift to be conferred.​​​​​​​​​​

The vehicle had been in production at the Hiroshima Plant (Higashihiroshima City), and now that it was complete, a presentation ceremony hosted by Takarazuka City was held at Suehiro Chuo Park next to the city hall on July 20.​​​​​​​​

The weather was wonderful that day, which fell during the break in the rainy season, and children from Takarazuka City nurseries who had been invited as guests inserted imitation waste into the compactor. The children took great interest in the refuse compactor, quickly demonstrating the power of using it for environmental study.

Going forward, the refuse compactor will be permanently installed at the Takarazuka City Clean Center to serve as a tool for teaching elementary school students in the city about the environment.