SPOGOMI WORLD CUP RULES
The official rules for international competition.
Basic Matters
- Teams will compete by earning points based on the type and weight of the trash they collect within the designated time and area. The team with the highest score will be declared the winner.
- The trash collection will last for 1 hour, followed by 20 minutes for sorting. If the time limit is exceeded, points will be deducted.
- Each team will consist of 3 members.
- Multiple referees will be stationed within the competition area to ensure safety and compliance with the rules. If a rule violation occurs, the referees may issue a warning. If the violation is not corrected after multiple warnings, the team may face point deductions or disqualification.
- In addition to the rules set forth here, please follow traffic rules and ensure your safety at all times. Be especially cautious in narrow roads and areas with vehicle traffic.
- If an injury or accident occurs during the competition, immediately inform the nearest referee or staff member and follow their instructions.
Rules in terms of competition
- The distance between the first and last member should not be more than 10 meters apart. ※The goal is reached when the last member crosses the finish line and reports to the judge standing at the finish line.
- Do not run (fast walking is allowed).
- Walking: Method of movement with either foot on the ground at all times.
- Running: A method of movement in which there is a moment when both feet leave the ground, float, or jump at the same time.
What not to pick up
- Trash already in the trash bin.
- Trash left at garbage collection points.
- Trash that appears to be owned by others (judging from the surroundings like being arranged and placed, or signs of recent use).
- Bulky waste: Large trash that does not fit into the distributed garbage bags (700mm x 500mm = 30 liters). Examples: batteries, fans, futons, cushions, fire extinguishers, concrete, blocks, safes, metal bars, tires, wheels, stoves, computers, strollers, rice cookers.
- Hazardous waste (e.g., syringes).
- Trash picked up by lifting road gutters and dovetails.
- Do not leave the competition area.
- Areas you are not allowed to enter:
- In rivers and oceans.
- Private property. ※Coin-operated parking lots are accessible due to their public nature, but parking lots exclusively for companies, organizations, etc. are not allowed.
- Observe separation rules.
- Observe traffic rules.
Point Reduction and Disqualification
You may receive a caution from the judge when violating the rules. If a player is cautioned by the judge and repeatedly (two or more times) fails to comply with the caution, points may be deducted, and in the case of malicious behavior, the judge may disqualify the player at his/her own discretion.
Cases with point reductions:
- Violation of the “Rules of Competition”.
- If you do not return after completing trash pickup in time: -10 points for every minute, disqualification for more than 10 minutes late (e.g., 1-59 seconds late is -10 points, and 60-119 seconds late is -20 points).
- If the trash is not properly separated at the time of weighing: -100 points. Weighing is performed again after the trash is separated.
- If you pick up something from the “What not to pick up” list: -100 points.
Cases of disqualification:
- If you travel by means other than walking, such as train, bus, taxi, bicycle, etc.
- Any increase in the weight of trash by any means other than picking up fallen trash (e.g., bulking up weight with water, adding trash from a trash can, getting trash from stores, etc.).
- Behavior not in keeping with good sportsmanship (e.g., engaging in violent behavior, swearing at other teams or judges, etc.).
- When you do not heed the warnings of judges and staff and continue to engage in malicious acts.
- In the event that you return to the venue more than 10 minutes later than the designated time for trash pickup.
- Any other actions not listed here that are deemed dangerous, malicious, or otherwise inappropriate for the purpose of sports trash pickup will be subject to point deductions and disqualification.
Point System
Understand how points are awarded in Spogomi World Cup games.
Preparation & Supplies
Being prepared is key to a successful and safe game. Check our list of recommended supplies.