Green Ribbon Day (Organ Donation Awareness Day)

What Is Green Ribbon Day?

October 16th is "Green Ribbon Day" in Japan. It was established by the Japan Organ Transplant Network (JOT), the organization that coordinates organ transplants in Japan, as a day for people to talk with family and loved ones about transplantation and life, and to confirm each other's wishes regarding organ donation.

Why October 16th?

The date comes from October 16, 1997, when Japan's Organ Transplant Act took effect. October is also "Organ Transplant Awareness Month" in Japan.

• Date origin: October 16, 1997, when the Organ Transplant Act took effect.
• Established by: the Japan Organ Transplant Network.
• Organ Transplant Awareness Month: Public education campaigns are held nationwide every October.
• Purpose: To encourage people to discuss and confirm their wishes about organ donation with family and loved ones.

The Meaning of the Green Ribbon

The day is named after the green ribbon, the worldwide symbol of transplant medicine.

• Green: Represents growth and new life.
• The ribbon: Represents the bond of life between donors and the patients who need transplants (recipients).
• Spreading understanding: Used as a symbol to reduce misconceptions and anxiety and share accurate information.

Basic Facts About Organ Transplantation

• Registering your wishes: In Japan, you can indicate your organ donation preferences on your driver's license, health insurance card, My Number card, or a donor card.
• Family consent: Even if a person has registered their wishes, family agreement may still be required in some cases.
• The role of transplant medicine: For patients with serious illnesses, an organ transplant can sometimes be the only available treatment.

Fun Facts About Green Ribbon Day

• A globally recognized symbol: The green ribbon is used for organ donation awareness in many countries around the world.
• Green light-ups: Around this day, landmarks across Japan, such as Tokyo Tower and the Sapporo TV Tower, are lit up in green.
• Donor cards: Organ donor cards became widespread in Japan following the enactment of the Organ Transplant Act in 1997.
• Reaching younger generations: The topic is sometimes incorporated into school curricula as part of "life education."

Ways to Mark Green Ribbon Day

• Take some time to think about your own views on organ donation.
• Talk with your family about your wishes in case of an emergency.
• Learn accurate information about organ transplantation.
• If you see a green light-up in town, remember what it stands for.

A Day to Reflect on the Choice That Connects Lives

Green Ribbon Day on October 16th, the anniversary of the Organ Transplant Act taking effect, is a moment to think about transplant medicine and life. Whether or not you choose to donate, use it as a chance to decide on your wishes and share them with your family.