Research of the Severity of Litter at Proposed Tokyo Olympics Venues

Of the proposed venues for the Tokyo Olympics (34 venues as of May 2016), we selected 16 areas for research based on the following factors, after grouping the venues based on proximity to each other:
・Ability to enter
・Number of neighboring venues
・Possibility of venue relocation
・Distance from closest station
Selected Venues: National Olymic Stadium, Yoyogi Park, Kudanshita, Ryogoku, Tokyo City Keiba, Daiba, Ariake, Shin-Kiba, Kasai Rinkai Park, Tobitakyu, Shin-Yokohama, Enoshima, Urawa-Misono, Saitama-Shintoshin, Kaihin Makuhari

We selected sidewalks to be researched at each research area based on the following factors:
・Route from closest station to venue
・Perimeter around venue
・Routes and surroundings of perimeter
 

We recorded on video sidewalks using a smartphone research app. The total distance covered was 75 km.

*We conducted the research using "Takanome", a proprietary anti-litter research program developed by Pirika, Inc. With Takanome, we can record streets using a smartphone and identify the type and measure the amount of litter captured on video.

We analyzed the types and amounts of litter captured on video (from step #3) .

Trained staff conducted the final review. (For example, because it is difficult for our current program to distinguish properly discarded trash from litter, we implemented a quality control measure by reviewing the results with the human eye.)

More than 40 people spent more than 1,000 hours to review more than 100,000 pieces of litter.

We collected and analyzed the data, and created heat maps and graphs. Litter trends and distribution at each Olympics venue became clear, and we have made progress in providing effective solutions for the litter problem.

We plan to share the results with local governments and officials and private enterprises that may be impacted by the results, in the hope that they will lead to development and implementation of effective anti-litter measures.