On November 2, 2024, the Akita Marine Litter Zero Project held its fifth "Picking up Litter While Walking Your Dog" campaign in Odate City, Japan. This initiative, part of the Nippon Foundation's "Ocean and Japan Project - CHANGE FOR THE BLUE," attracted a record 36 dog lovers and 25 dogs, including 10 Akita breeds.
The event aimed to promote a new etiquette habit among dog owners to pick up litter during walks, thereby reducing marine debris originating from urban areas. Participants donned bibs and collected trash around the Akita Inu no Sato, garnering attention from passersby.
A highlight of the event was the introduction of the "Sanpei Trash Pickup Basket," designed for efficient garbage collection in areas with limited waste bins. This backpack-style basket facilitated the collection of trash, enhancing the cleanup experience.
Feedback from participants indicated a growing awareness of the connection between urban litter and marine pollution, emphasizing the need for collective action to protect the ocean.