Kamikatsu Zero Waste Center l Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP

The Kamikatsu Zero Waste Center stands as a beacon of sustainability in the heart of Tokushima Prefecture’s Kamikatsu town. This remarkable initiative is committed to transforming the community into a model of eco-conscious living, with a persistent goal of achieving zero waste. With an impressive recycling rate already soaring at 80%, the town’s residents have embraced sorting their trash into a staggering 45 distinct categories, akin to a well-organized store display within the Kamikatsu Zero Waste Center.

© Koji Fujii / TOREAL

In an era where the pitfalls of mass production and consumption have become increasingly evident domestically and globally, all eyes are on this pioneering movement. At its core, this project revolves around a multifunctional facility, the Kamikatsu Zero Waste Center, which encompasses a trash sorting and collection station, a recycling hub, and an educational center dedicated to championing the principles of zero-waste living.

© Koji Fujii / TOREAL

Kamikatsu Zero Waste Center’s Design Concept

The architectural approach adopted for this endeavor is a testament to its overarching philosophy. By harnessing locally sourced cedar wood, not only does the center reduce its carbon footprint, but it also maximizes the utilization of forestry resources. Opting for whole logs instead of rotary-cut cedar minimizes wood waste. Furthermore, an ingenious cross-sectional design ensures adaptability and scalability as the town’s waste volume shrinks with population decline and technological advancements.

© Koji Fujii / TOREAL

But the true magic of the Kamikatsu Zero Waste Center lies in its ability to transform discarded items into valuable resources. Fittings, farming tools, and more find new life as exterior fixtures, while glass bottle cullets serve as a creative terrazzo aggregate. The center, adorned with stacked bureaus on its walls, becomes a place where generations connect, with grandmothers sharing stories of family heirlooms with their grandchildren.

© Koji Fujii / TOREAL

This architectural marvel not only repurposes Kamikatsu’s resources but also reshapes the town’s identity. It fosters a profound appreciation for the local lifestyle, unveiling the richness hidden within what was once considered mere “waste.” As the Kamikatsu Zero Waste Center takes its place as the embodiment of the town’s ethos, residents stand tall with pride, knowing they are leading the way in sustainable living.

© Koji Fujii / TOREAL

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