Ikasa is an umbrella-sharing service that was launched in 2018 in Tokyo. Using Ikasa app, you can borrow an umbrella by simply scanning the QR code at umbrella spots set up in stations, office buildings, and other locations. You can also return an umbrella at any time by selecting one of the many umbrella spots in the city. This system, which makes umbrellas available anytime and anywhere, solves the problems of consumers who do not have an umbrella at hand when they need one, do not want to carry them around, and do not want to buy an umbrella every time it appears.
It is said that about 120 to 130 million umbrellas are consumed annually, and 60 to 70% of 80 million plastic umbrellas are discarded within a year in Japan. Ikasa’s umbrella sharing service not only prevents disposable umbrellas, but also contributes to the reduction of CO2 emissions by extending the life of umbrellas through the use of highly durable glass fiber.
Currently, in addition to Yokohama City, umbrella spots are being set up in the Tokyo metropolitan area, as well as in Kansai, Nagoya, and Fukuoka areas. The service is expanding to a nationwide scale with local and limited design umbrellas in collaboration with other companies.