The resource recycling sector will be added as a new field under the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) and the Training and Employment Program.
Currently, details are being coordinated within a council established to facilitate the acceptance of foreign workers under both programs. Companies planning to hire SSW or training workers will begin full-scale preparation by joining this council.
Further details, including required skill levels, will be determined in the future.
What Does Resource Recycling Work Involve?
Resource recycling of waste (both municipal and industrial) generally consists of the following three processes:
- Collection and Transportation
Waste is collected, mainly through scheduled collection routes, and transported to processing facilities. - Intermediate Processing
Collected waste is received and sorted to separate recyclable materials. These materials are then processed into recycled resources or energy. This stage also includes shipment of recycled materials and shipment of residual waste. - Final Disposal
Residual waste generated during intermediate processing is disposed of at final disposal sites.
Among these processes, intermediate processing is expected to be the primary area covered under the SSW and training programs.
Intermediate Processing Tasks
Intermediate processing mainly consists of the following four tasks:
- Receiving
Checking whether the waste can be accepted, weighing operations, and verifying manifests. - Sorting
Unloading waste, sorting recyclable materials and removing contaminants, temporary storage, handling non-conforming items, and preparation before feeding into processing equipment. - Processing
Feeding waste into processing equipment, monitoring equipment conditions, detecting abnormalities, temporary storage, and handling unexpected issues. - Shipment
Loading waste, verifying contents, and conducting weighing operations.
Expected Number of Workers
The expected number of workers to be accepted over three years (FY2026–FY2028) is 4,500:
- SSW Type 1: 900 workers
- ESDP: 3,600 workers
Examinations and Japanese Language Requirements
- SSW Skills Test
This test is required to obtain the SSW Type 1 status of residence. Details have not yet been finalized. - Training Program Skills Test
A basic-level skills evaluation required within one year after starting the program. Details have not yet been finalized. - Japanese Language Requirements
SSW Type 1: A2.2 level or higher (equivalent to CEFR A2)
ESDP: At least CEFR A1 level before starting
Summary
Full-scale employment is expected to begin in spring 2027, with more detailed information on acceptance requirements likely to be clarified around summer 2026.
In Japan, waste sorting rules vary depending on the municipality where you live. Items such as plastic bottles, cans, glass, and plastics are often required to be separated carefully according to local rules.
Some people may not be familiar with these rules and may dispose of waste incorrectly. However, failing to follow proper sorting rules can make resource recycling work more difficult.
Through working in the resource recycling sector, individuals can learn the importance of resources and acquire recycling-related skills. This sector is expected to remain in demand in the future.
By Hajime Saito
X: @hajimesaitoYJC