Recycling of waste materials for new market creation
A related organization of the Fisheries Agency is developing technology to create artificial reefs using waste materials and remove shellfish from the surface of rocks on the coast, aiming to create a new market. The plan is to utilize coal ash, used concrete, and shells to produce highly productive fishing grounds. A preparatory committee has been established by nine companies, and a total of 200 million yen will be invested in the development of this technology.
Strengthening regulations for stable final disposal sites
The Environment Agency and the Ministry of Health and Welfare have decided to strengthen regulations on stable final disposal sites for industrial waste. The plan is to conduct a factual survey of 100 disposal sites nationwide, evaluate the risk of water contamination caused by the discharge of sewage and the leakage of chemical substances, and, based on this evaluation, consider measures such as mandatory drainage countermeasures and a ban on the disposal of hazardous plastics.
New energy introduction framework
In Japan, the supply of new energy was only 1.2% of the total energy supply as of 1992. The New Energy Introduction Framework aims to significantly increase this supply by 2010, with plans to expand solar power generation, waste-to-energy, and other initiatives, to meet the goal of reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
Research on emission reduction technology for ships
The Ministry of Transport has begun research on emission reduction technology for ships in response to regulations being promoted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The ministry will conduct research on emission reduction technologies such as air injection and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) to effectively reduce harmful gas emissions from ships.
Recycling biodegradable plastic bags
The Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) has launched a model project in Hiroshima City to recycle biodegradable plastic bags along with the waste inside them. The project will verify whether biodegradable plastic can withstand practical use in terms of cost and technology, with the aim of promoting the widespread use of biodegradable plastics and establishing food waste recycling.
Guidelines for recycling in the automotive parts industry
The Japan Auto Parts Industries Association has compiled recycling guidelines to promote the development of parts that can be easily recycled, with about 500 member companies expected to implement these guidelines. The guidelines provide 74 points for the recycling of scrapped cars, and by promoting recyclable designs, it is expected to reduce processing costs.
Asian chemical manufacturers establish recycling information network
Chemical manufacturers from eight Asian countries, including Japan, Korea, and the Philippines, have agreed to establish a permanent organization to promote the recycling of expanded polystyrene (EPS). The new organization will promote resource recovery of EPS in collaboration with recycling organizations and operators in each country, and will actively exchange information with similar organizations in Europe and the United States to build a global recycling information network.
Review of Eco-Mark certification standards
The Environment Agency is reviewing the criteria for Eco-Mark, Japan's eco-label, and will introduce Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to evaluate products. The agency plans to establish new certification standards by June 1995, with input from experts, to promote the development of environmentally friendly products.
Pyrolysis technology for waste plastics
There is growing interest in pyrolysis technology for converting waste plastics into oil. The technology, which aims to reduce environmental impact and improve recycling efficiency, is being researched and is expected to progress toward practical application. The process of converting waste plastics back into oil could play a significant role in environmental preservation.
Expansion of the household food waste processor market
Household food waste processors are being introduced by various home appliance manufacturers as part of waste reduction measures. The processors, developed by Matsushita Electric and Sanyo Electric, use microbial decomposition and hot air drying methods, improving functionality and ease of use. The spread of these products will depend heavily on increased environmental awareness among consumers.
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