PCB and DDT Pollution in Tokyo Bay and Osaka Bay - 2020s

PCB and DDT Pollution in Tokyo Bay and Osaka Bay - 2020s

Even in the 2020s, marine pollution by PCB (Polychlorinated Biphenyl) and DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) remains a serious issue in Tokyo Bay and Osaka Bay, Japan. Although the use of these harmful substances was banned in the 1970s, industrial waste has continued to accumulate in the oceans for many years. In particular, a 2020 survey found PCB concentrations exceeding 100 nanograms per liter in parts of Tokyo Bay, far surpassing environmental standards.

Similarly, PCB and DDT have accumulated in the sediments of Osaka Bay, with a 2021 survey detecting high concentrations of PCB in some sediments. The effects of past industrial activity in the Hanshin Industrial Zone remain evident, and pollution continues to progress. Additionally, PCB pollution has been confirmed in Kushiro Marsh, raising concerns about its impact on waterfowl and fish.

The primary cause of this pollution is the improper disposal of PCB and DDT in the past, which has led to their release into the marine environment. In Japan, electrical equipment and paints manufactured before the 1970s contained PCB, and their waste has been discharged into the sea and rivers. Moreover, past incidents like the Kanemi Oil Incident may still be contributing to this lingering pollution.

The Japan Environmental Safety Corporation (JESCO) is leading the effort to process PCB waste nationwide, but challenges remain as the 2027 processing deadline approaches. Many small and medium-sized businesses and local governments are struggling with disposal, and the processing capacity is being stretched thin.

Companies like Hitachi and Kawasaki Heavy Industries have developed technologies to neutralize PCB and other harmful substances, contributing to pollution control efforts both domestically and internationally. However, in some regions, monitoring systems remain inadequate.

In the future, the Japanese government will need to address not only PCB disposal but also the issue of newer pollutants like PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances). International cooperation, along with the sharing of technology and strengthened policies, will be essential for preventing environmental pollution across the Asia-Pacific region.