TOKYO, Japan, April 21, 2025 – Federal Express Corporation, one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, took action to address the accumulation of litter on waterfronts and ocean plastic pollution in the local community. In collaboration with the local non-profit organization Hands On Tokyo, FedEx volunteers collected approximately 50 kilograms of trash along the Arakawa riverbank in Tokyo. This activity helps prevent plastic and other waste from entering the ocean, contributing to cleaner waterfronts and a healthier ecosystem.
FedEx remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the environment. This clean-up activity provides an opportunity for FedEx employees to demonstrate their dedication to environmental stewardship and community service, which are core tenets of the company’s culture and values.
“At FedEx, we believe that the long-term prosperity of our business depends on the health of the environment,” said Kei Alan Kubota, managing director of FedEx Japan. “In addition to embracing sustainability initiatives in our operations, such as the use of reusable packaging, electric vehicle (EVs) to reduce emissions, and alternative bio diesel for existing vehicles, we continually seek out ways to care for the environment and support local communities. This clean-up activity demonstrates our employees’ passion and commitment to fostering sustainable communities.”
Plastic waste often accumulates along riverbanks and eventually makes its way to the ocean. It is predicted that by 2050, the weight of marine plastic will exceed that of fish[1]. In local FY2023, Japan was estimated to discharge 27,000 tons of plastic waste into the ocean[2]. There are concerns about human health impacts, with research suggesting that people worldwide ingest approximately 5 grams of plastic per week, equivalent to a credit card.[3] To address this issue, the Japanese government has proposed a goal for the international community to eliminate additional marine plastic pollution by 2050.[4]
This cleanup initiative with Hands On Tokyo is part of FedEx Cares, the company’s global community engagement program that encourages employees to give back to society through volunteer programs. FedEx in Japan continues its commitment to community clean-up efforts. In previous activities, FedEx employees have come together to remove 525 kilograms of litter from beaches parks, roads, and riverbanks across various locations.
For more information about FedEx sustainability efforts and its commitment to a more environmentally responsible future, please click here.
[1]The Issue of Marine Plastic Litter by the Ministry of the Environment
[2] FY2023 report by the Ministry of the Environment
[3] No Plastic in Nature by WWF
[4] FY2023 report by the Ministry of the Environment