Chiyoda City deploys smart trash cans in Akihabara

Chiyoda City has launched a large-scale deployment of SmaGO smart trash cans in the Akihabara district of Tokyo. A total of 22 units have been installed across 10 locations, including near Akihabara Station and Chuo-dori, marking the first time a Japanese municipality has led such a major implementation.

Developed by Forstech, these IoT-enabled bins are powered by solar energy. They feature an automatic compression function that reduces waste volume to approximately one-fifth and utilize communication technology to notify collectors when they are full. The deployment includes 10 units for general waste with compression capabilities and 12 non-compressing units for recyclable materials.

Chiyoda City Mayor Takaaki Higuchi stated that the initiative represents a shift from the traditional principle of requiring citizens to carry their own trash home. The move aims to address littering issues and the shortage of disposal options for visitors, particularly international tourists. The project is supported by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s “TOKYO Cleanup Action” subsidy program.