On February 16, 2025, environmental cleanup campaigns took place across five major Japanese cities: Tokyo, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Kyoto, and Sendai. The effort was a collaboration between ASEZ student members from South Korea and local ASEZ members in Japan.
In Japan, volunteerism has become more than just community service—it is seen as a culture of social solidarity and responsibility. Since the 1995 Kobe earthquake, volunteer activities have significantly increased, and today, citizens actively participate in various fields such as disaster response, educational support, and community welfare. The Japanese government and civil society also recognize volunteerism as a key social value and actively promote it through various programs and policies.
Despite being held on a Sunday, the campaign drew a lively turnout, with many ASEZ members and volunteers enthusiastically participating. In all five regions, student volunteers contributed to improving the local environment through hands-on cleanup activities. Passersby expressed their support and gratitude, offering words of encouragement and praise to the students working diligently in the streets.
Kim Gyuri, an ASEZ member who took part in the campaign, shared her thoughts:
“The ASEZ activity in Japan was a truly special experience. While engaging with citizens around the busy Sendai Station area, we had a natural opportunity to share ASEZ’s mission and the importance of environmental protection. I hope to see more activities through continued exchange and cooperation. As an ASEZ member, I plan to keep volunteering in various countries and being part of positive change.”
This cleanup campaign in Japan was more than just a litter pickup—it served as a meaningful step in raising environmental awareness and promoting a culture of volunteerism within the community. ASEZ plans to continue its global efforts in environmental protection and social contribution projects. Many are now looking forward to seeing where ASEZ’s positive impact will reach next.
