"Environmental Companies and Green Companies Initiatives" - April 2003

1. Sharp's Eco-Friendly Air Conditioner
Sharp has developed an air conditioner equipped with "ion technology" to remove viruses and mold spores. Focusing on environmental considerations, the company has adopted shape memory alloy screws that allow for efficient disassembly. This reduces the environmental impact of indoor environments and provides products that prioritize consumer health and comfort.

2. Oxygen Enrichment Membrane Equipped Air Conditioner
Panasonic has developed an air conditioner with an "oxygen enrichment membrane" to increase oxygen concentration. The membrane allows only oxygen molecules to pass through, keeping indoor air clean. This technology effectively removes dust and bacteria, contributing to improved indoor environments.

3. Use of Biodegradable Plastics
Sony has developed a Walkman using biodegradable plastics derived from plants. These plastics decompose into CO2 and water through microbial activity after disposal. This technology reduces the environmental impact of electronic devices and contributes to solving waste issues.

4. Development of Recycling Infrastructure
To promote the formation of a recycling-based society, the development of recycling infrastructure is progressing. In 2003, the "Landfill Site Reclamation Project" was launched, which focuses on reducing and recycling waste buried in municipal general waste disposal sites. This is expected to alleviate the pressure on landfill sites.

5. Waste Plastic Power Generation
Waste plastic-based power generation is expected to expand. The Ministry of the Environment plans to support industrial waste power generation by subsidizing five domestic power generation facilities by 2021. This initiative aims to use waste plastics as a new energy source, contributing to the prevention of global warming.

6. Wind and Solar Hybrid Power Generation
A wind and solar hybrid power generation system has been installed in Kita Ward, Osaka City, to illuminate an advertising tower using 100% renewable energy. This system combines wind turbines and solar panels to store electricity, which is then used to power neon advertisements. This environmentally friendly technology is expected to be widely adopted in the future.

7. Enforcement of the Green Purchasing Law
The Green Purchasing Law mandates that government agencies purchase environmentally friendly products. In 2003, 24 new items, including fuel cell vehicles, were added, promoting the greening of the market. This law has increased demand for low-environmental-impact products, driving companies to focus on developing products with higher environmental efficiency.

8. Technology in Eco-Friendly Refrigerators
Toshiba has commercialized the "non-Freon plasma refrigerator," using environmentally friendly materials for insulation and refrigerants. In addition, energy-saving designs and the reduction of environmentally harmful substances have been realized. This refrigerator is expected to significantly reduce energy consumption in households.

9. Environmental Technology in Music Equipment
Sony has reduced the environmental impact of its products by using biodegradable plastics in its music equipment. This alternative to traditional plastics has gained attention and was developed in collaboration with various companies to ensure durability and environmental performance. This contributes to advancements in environmental technology.

10. Environmental Technology in Public Works Projects
Japanese public works projects are increasingly incorporating environmental technologies. Projects such as eco-roads and eco-ports emphasize environmental considerations, balancing environmental conservation with economic development. This trend is contributing to the construction of a more sustainable society.