There were many "Eco-Actions" that were emphasized through out the event. There were many booths collecting oil (as many house holds use oil to cook Japanese dishes such as tempura) and bottle caps in order to recycle what would usually be considered "waste." The goal was to raise 1000kL of oil and 72,000 plastic bottle caps, and the goal was in fact achieved! I am deeply thrilled and to be honest surprised, by the number of people who contributed in the donations. 

Furthermore, what I found interesting throughout the event was the "My paper cup, paper plate" system, in which each individual was asked to bring their own dining utensils, in order to minimize the garbage from paper cups, paper plates, and wooden chopsticks. Well actually, there were no paper cups, paper plates, or wooden chopsticks in the venue at all! Those who did not have his or her own paper cup/paper plate were asked to rent plastic cups/plates for a hundred yen, which could be used for the whole day. I had never encountered this plate renting system ever before, and only then did I realized the amount of waste produced from paper cups/plates. This idea of renting plates/cups was innovative and creative!

I enjoyed the various events that were held, including yoga exercises that enabled us to connect with Earth, and various musical gigs. There was even a time when a leader from a Native American tribe performed his prayers to the earth. Through the spiritual connection with our Earth, I felt more appreciative and aware of my surroundings. I realized thatthe Earth wasn't made for us. We were made on Earth and thus we are responsible for preserving the beauty of nature that the Earth provides for us. Honestly, if only there was an Earth Day every single month!