litter-hunters vie for unusual world title in Tokyo

The first Spogomi World Cup organized by the Tokyo Environmental Society, aimed to highlight the importance of keeping the surroundings clean and free from rubbish. The competition held in Tokyo brought together participants from various backgrounds and age groups. Armed with gloves, trash bags, and a strong determination, these litter-hunters scoured the park for any litter they could find.

The Spogomi World Cup saw 21 countries battle it out to collect the most rubbish within a set time limit, scouring the streets in search of plastic, cigarette butts and other trash. Spogomi combines words meaning "sport" and "trash" in Japanese for rubbish. Under World Cup rules, each team consists of three people and has an hour to collect litter at a designated area such as the beach and streets.