Mottainai written on a truck, followed by the sentence "I strive towards zero emission " Mottainai (Japanese: もったいない or 勿体無い) is a Japanese phrase conveying a sense of regret over …

One Japanese word can completely change the way you see life. It’s called Mottainai — a simple yet powerful idea that teaches you to value what you already have, avoid waste, and live with ...

Sep 13, 2025 · Learn what mottainai (もったいない) means - the Japanese philosophy against waste - its origins, everyday uses, examples, and easy ways to live it anywhere.