FamilyMart, a major convenience store, started charging for plastic spoons, straws, etc. at some stores from the 29th. The aim is to reduce plastic waste, and this is the first time for a major convenience store.
Starting from the 29th, FamilyMart will charge a fee for plastic spoons, forks, and straws that are provided free of charge to customers who purchase bento boxes, desserts, etc., and will sell them for 4 to 6 yen at 100 stores nationwide.
Among these stores, in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo, flyers announcing the charge were posted at the entrance and at the cash register, and store staff explained this to shoppers.
The company expects to be able to reduce plastic usage by approximately 4 tons per year by charging 100 stores, and plans to gradually expand the charge to more than 16,000 stores nationwide.
Kimio Harada of the Marketing Headquarters' Environmental Promotion Group says, ``In order to further reduce plastic costs, we need to charge a fee, and we would like to clearly notify customers and gain their cooperation.''
Regarding the spoons and forks that convenience stores have provided for free, 7-Eleven Japan has incorporated 30% plant-based materials, and Lawson has cut holes in the handles to reduce the amount of plastic used. Although we are proceeding with reductions, this is the first time for a major convenience store to impose a charge, so it will be interesting to see if the charge will spread throughout the industry.