Yokohama's Circular Economy Hubs Spreading Across City

Yokohama City's pursuit of becoming a 'circular city' is gaining momentum. The driving force behind this initiative isn't just cutting-edge technology or ambitious targets, but rather the trust built through dialogue among government, residents, and businesses.

The city has been working towards its goal since 2003 with the 'G30 Plan,' a landmark waste-reduction programme. This effort has expanded into cross-sector collaboration and creative initiatives, such as turning historic buildings into cultural reuse facilities.

One example is BankPark YOKOHAMA, a former First Bank of Japan branch that was transformed into a co-creation hub for the circular economy in 2025. The building now hosts events on circular themes, including talk sessions with experts and workshops using reclaimed materials.

The movement to redevelop historic buildings is spreading beyond the urban waterfront area into residential inland areas. In 2026, the city's first suburban creative hub, the 'Creative Circular Culture Center,' will open in Hodogaya Ward, featuring a 'Material Library' that displays resources no longer needed in the community.