As one of the largest producers of plastic waste due to excessive product packaging in stores, Japan is grappling with environmental pollution, which also stems from waste incineration. Since environmental degradation is said to be at odds with Japan’s supposed harmonious coexistence with nature, in my thesis I investigated how the distinction between the environment and nature influences the issue of excessive product packaging. In this study, I hypothesized that the use of plastic is influenced by several factors, such as the culture of packaging, the culture of courteous service, modern consumerism, and industrialization. Based on my analysis, I concluded that the conceptual separation of nature and the environment—due to a diminished sense of environmental harm—contributes to increased plastic use. At the same time, the tradition of wrapping and professional customer service are adapting to the values of capitalism and the competitiveness of modern consumerism, which, by positioning plastic as a new medium, places contemporary Japanese consumerism and the traditional values of the mottainai concept—a concept that promotes frugality but lacks sufficient influence to counter social practices centered on cleanliness, service, and convenience—at odds. During periods of economic development, cultural traditions begin to adapt to the demands of the modern market. The problem of excessive plastic packaging and the search for possible solutions to the resulting environmental damage are therefore complex issues that require an understanding of the society, culture, and economy that collectively drive the everyday use of plastic.
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