5 Key Insights Saving Japan's Iconic Deer from Tourist Trash in Nara

5 Key Insights Saving Japan's Iconic Deer from Tourist Trash in Nara

As you stroll through Japan's ancient city of Nara, surrounded by majestic temple structures and tranquil gardens, it's easy to feel a sense of serenity wash over you. However, beneath the surface, a quiet crisis is unfolding. In this beloved tourist destination, a team of dedicated litter-pickers is fighting an uphill battle against the scourge of plastic waste threatening the very animals that bring joy to visitors – Nara's famous deer.

Insight #1 The Problem is Real and Worrying

The ancient city of Nara has become a major draw for Japan's record influx of visitors. Unfortunately, this influx has brought with it unwelcome consequences. Tourists are only allowed to feed the deer special rice crackers sold in Nara, but the animals are increasingly eating rubbish by accident. According to Nobuyuki Yamazaki of the Nara Deer Preservation Foundation, more and more people are carelessly disposing of their leftovers or snack packaging in the park.

Insight #2 Plastic Waste is a Deadly Threat to These Majestic Creatures

Plastic items can accumulate in deer stomachs over a long period, leading to their death through weakness. Tragically, some activists have even retrieved chunks of plastic waste from Nara deer carcasses. This poignant reminder of the devastating impact of our actions on the environment serves as a powerful motivator for change.

Insight #3 Meet the Unsung Heroes Fighting to Save the Deer

Armed with gloves, tongs, and dustpans, the park's litter-picking squad – Beautiful Deer – is fighting back. This team, mostly comprising people with disabilities, has been collaborating with Yamazaki's foundation for several years. For many members, being able to contribute to society is at the core of their motivation, said supervisor Masahito Kawanishi.

Insight #4 The Absence of Public Bins is a Major Challenge

A major hurdle facing Nara Park is its lack of public bins. This policy was introduced about four decades ago to stop deer scavenging in them for food. Visitors are instead encouraged to take their trash home – an ingrained habit in Japan that's not always shared by people from abroad, Yamazaki said.

Insight #5 Innovative Solutions Are on the Horizon

To address this issue, Nara authorities are trialing high-tech, solar-powered bins near the park as part of a 20-million-yen ($129,000) project. These bins can automatically compress trash and bear the slogan Save the Nara deer from plastic waste. Public bins are scarce across Japan, with one theory being that the deadly 1995 subway sarin gas attacks by a doomsday cult caused them to be removed.

Conclusion

As we gaze upon these majestic creatures, it's clear that our actions have far-reaching consequences. By supporting initiatives like Beautiful Deer and adopting sustainable practices in our daily lives, we can make a difference. The future of Nara's deer – and the beauty they bring to us all – depends on it.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.