Spogomi: Turning Trash Collection into a World Championship

Spogomi, a combination of the words sport and gomi (Japanese for trash), originated with Kenichi Mamitsuka in Japan, who started picking up trash during his jogging routine. This simple act evolved into an organized sport with rules.

Teams have 45 minutes to collect trash in designated areas, with rules prohibiting running and entering private property. The trash is weighed and sorted, with extra points awarded for specific items like cigarette butts.

The first Spogomi World Cup was held in Tokyo in 2023, with participants from 21 countries. In 2025, the number of participants increased to 34. The team from the United Kingdom won in 2023, while in 2025, the Japanese team Smile Story emerged as champions.

The goal of Spogomi is not only to clean up streets but also to change mindsets, encouraging the participation of people who have had no prior contact with environmental actions. Mamitsuka aims to develop Spogomi into a global sport.