Collecting about 42 tons of empty Gashapon capsules every year! Introducing examples of eco-friendly initiatives at stores

Gashapon (capsule toys), filled with small toys and character goods, are popular with a wide range of generations, from children to adults.

In recent years, efforts to recycle empty capsules and initiatives by stores aiming for a sustainable society have been attracting attention. In this article, we will introduce a unique and eco-friendly example of our company's use of empty Gashapon capsules.

Empty capsule recycling initiative

Recognizing that plastic waste has a significant impact on ecosystems and the environment as an important social issue, Bandai Namco Group has been collecting and recycling Gashapon capsules since 2006.

Through this initiative, approximately 42 tons of empty capsules will be collected annually (FY2023 results), some of which will be recycled. The collected capsules will be reused as recycled materials and used in creating new products.

This recycling project is unique in that it is being carried out in collaboration with three companies: Bandai, Bandai Namco Amusement Inc., which operates the amusement facilities, and Logipal Express, which handles logistics. By setting up dedicated collection boxes in the amusement corners of large stores and commercial facilities, an environment has been created in which anyone can easily participate in recycling.

Even after having fun with Gashapon, you can still take environmentally friendly action - this kind of eco-friendly initiative is gradually spreading.

Empty capsule collection box "Gasha Point Station"

The "Gasha Point Station" is a special collection box that has been set up to make it easier and more fun to recycle the empty capsules that are left over after enjoying Gashapon.

These collection boxes are installed in many stores operated by Bandai Namco Amusement Inc. and are easy for anyone to use.

One of the main features is the link with the smartphone app "Namco Point App". When you put an empty capsule into the Gasha Point Station, points are awarded through the app. The points you collect can be exchanged for coupons and prizes. Another fun thing about participating in recycling activities is that you can receive small rewards.

By providing a system of "enjoyable recycling" that only an entertainment company can offer, we are working to create an environment in which more people can easily participate in eco-activities.

Examples of upcycling using empty capsules

The fun of Gashapon continues even after you open the capsule. We will introduce some ideas that combine play and ecology through upcycling examples that create new value from empty capsules.

Example 1: Making musical instruments from empty capsules

Empty Gashapon capsules were transformed into tools that bring out children's creativity and joy of music - this unique initiative was held at the Namco AEON MALL KYOTO in October 2024.

At the "KYOTO Ichijoji Festival 2024 Autumn Festival," students from Kyoto Seika University held a workshop as part of their seminar activities to create "handmade musical instruments" with children using empty capsules. This was an experiential event where participants put beads in the capsules and painted them to create three types of instruments: drums, guitars, and maracas.

After the event, the capsules were separated, and it was not just an opportunity to promote recycling, but also an opportunity to learn about environmental friendliness through the use of empty capsules. This project, which was realized through the ideas of students and the cooperation of the local community, was a good example of empty capsules being returned to people's hands as a "resource" rather than "garbage."

This wonderful activity, which allows people to have fun while experiencing sustainability through everyday materials, is spreading all over the country.

Example 2: Empty Capsule Art

In September 2022, a new large store opened at AEON Mall in Kyoto, and as part of its opening promotion, an "empty capsule art" exhibition event was held. The artwork was made by combining empty Gashapon capsules with colorful cloth, and it was an "experience-based" art event where visitors could freely participate and get involved in the production.

This visually impactful art piece has attracted attention not only for its environmental friendliness in that it reuses empty capsules, but also as a place to generate interaction with local people. It has also been highly praised from the perspective of the SDGs, and is expected to be rolled out to other stores as a sustainable initiative created together with the local community, going beyond mere promotion.

The idea of turning unwanted capsules into materials that foster creativity and local ties may provide a hint for future eco-friendly activities.

summary

Recycling and upcycling efforts using empty Gashapon capsules are becoming more widespread. Bandai has developed a "capsule recycling" business that collects about 42 tons of empty capsules per year and recycles some of them, and Bandai Namco Amusement Inc., which operates the stores, has set up special collection boxes called "Gasha Point Stations."

By linking the app with the app, points can be earned, making recycling a more familiar activity. In addition, each store also holds creative local events using empty capsules, such as making musical instruments and reusing them in art pieces. This initiative, which combines environmental friendliness with fun, is supporting a sustainable future.

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