Nomachi Accelerator Program - Business Innovators

With hands-on support, I discovered my true focus.

 

While working as a nursing student, Ayasa witnessed the vast amounts of disposable gloves and aprons discarded in hospitals and questioned the status quo. Seeking solutions, she connected with TENJO and joined the program.

With research support, she began by deeply analyzing the current situation. Through site visits to waste management facilities and discussions with stakeholders, she became convinced that a circular economy is possible even within the healthcare sector.

 

She interviewed pioneering doctors and attended expert forums to identify specific challenges. Through repeated research, discussions, and mentoring, Ayasa realized her true mission: not only promoting circular economy practices but also empowering nurses.

As a first step, she launched “SPRING MEDICAL EXCHANGE (SME),” starting with media outreach to raise awareness among healthcare workers about environmental issues and create spaces for practical engagement.

In March 2025, Ayasa visited medical institutions and universities in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, USA, studying advanced initiatives in waste management and climate-health education. She observed efficient sorting and IT systems in hospitals and recognized the need for sustainability education among nursing students.

Exchanging views with environmentally active nursing groups and learning from medical device manufacturers broadened her understanding of eco-conscious healthcare. The trip reinforced the importance of international collaboration and revealed both differences and common ground between Japanese and American nursing practices.

Ayasa plans to expand her initiatives, including product development and building networks, to further promote circular economy solutions in healthcare.