Recently, many travelers have found that trash cans have disappeared from highway service stops across Japan. It has been revealed that this is a new measure implemented by highway authorities to reduce waste accumulation and promote better environmental practices among the public. The when and why of this move have sparked a mixed reaction from citizens and sparked debates over its impact on convenience versus the environment.

Being a heavily populated country with a strong emphasis on cleanliness, waste management is a significant issue in Japan. The decision to remove trash cans in some areas is seen as a radical step towards promoting a cleaner environment and self-responsibility for waste disposal. However, public convenience is highly valued in Japan, and some citizens are unhappy about the change.

In the US or EU, such measures may be taken in preserves or national parks where "leave no trace" system is enforced to protect the environment. However, at highway service stops, waste bins are typically provided for the convenience of travelers. Hence, this move considered quite controversial and might be received with mixed reactions.