SpoGOMI in Nanokamachi 2026: AI & IoT-powered litter pickup event in Yamagata on June 20

Hoosiers Well-being Partners, Yamagata Machizukuri, Yamagata University, and Yamagata University Co-op Student Committee will host 'SpoGOMI in Nanokamachi 2026' on June 20, 2026, from 10:00 to 12:30 at Hottona Hiroba in Yamagata City. Participation is free and open to the first 60 teams of 2 to 5 members.\nIn collaboration with Yamagata University and the Rethink PROJECT, participants will use 'Rethink Tongs' equipped with wireless cameras. Connected to a smartphone app, the AI analyzes and identifies the collected litter, mapping it via GPS to collect local environmental data.\nFirst held in 2024, the 2025 event drew 121 participants across 33 teams, collecting 24 kg of waste. The event is also registered under the Yamagata City SUKSK health point program. Co-organizers include Beautiful Yamagata/Mogami River Forum and Rethink PROJECT. Media coverage requires registration by June 19 at 18:00 via email ([email protected]) or phone (080-7191-3630).