Osaka’s Namba District Marks 100th Youth-Led Cleanup Milestone
By HWPL
More than 150 volunteers gathered around Namba Station and Dotonbori—a renowned entertainment district in Osaka, Japan—on March 7 to participate in the 100th Environmental Cleanup Volunteer Activity organized by International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) and the Kobe Branch of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL).
Since its launch in July 2022, the initiative has been conducted twice a month, reaching the milestone of 100 cleanup sessions in less than four years.
Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light, an international peace NGO with Special Consultative Status at the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), carries out global peace initiatives including peace education, interfaith dialogue, and youth network development. As an affiliated organization, International Peace Youth Group connects young people worldwide to advocate for ending war and promoting a culture of peace.
Beyond maintaining a cleaner environment, the initiative also addresses broader social challenges in Japan. Following the Tokyo subway sarin attack, Japan significantly reduced the number of public trash cans as an anti-terrorism measure. Over time, the limited availability of bins has contributed to issues such as illegal dumping and urban safety concerns.
Recognizing this context, IPYG volunteers began the cleanup campaign to promote coexistence and civic responsibility through environmental action. The program has also become a platform for interaction between local residents and youth, strengthening communication and community ties.
What began as a small-scale effort has steadily grown, now regularly attracting more than 100 youth volunteers. Over four years, the initiative has helped bring together young people from across the city around a shared purpose.
One participant, Ms. Nohara, reflected on the journey to the 100th cleanup.
“In the early days, participation was low, and covering such a large area was physically overwhelming,” she said. “But by enduring those challenges together, we now have 100 dependable colleagues who encourage one another.”
She added that even those unable to attend often share photos of themselves collecting trash in their own neighborhoods.
“Although we are physically apart, I feel a strong sense of unity knowing we share the same mission—to brighten the world,” she said, noting that seeing the streets cleaned brings a sense of pride and belonging.
Local residents have also expressed appreciation for the volunteers’ efforts. One Osaka citizen said watching young people dedicate their time to improving their community provides “a glimpse of new hope for the city.”
Following the 100th cleanup milestone, the HWPL Kobe Branch plans to expand public support and strengthen cooperation with local authorities, including the Osaka City Government. The organization hopes to establish youth-led volunteerism as a sustainable model for civic engagement within the community.
