1. **China's Environmental ISO Status**

1. **China's Environmental ISO Status**
- In China, the acquisition of Environmental ISO (14001) certification is rapidly increasing. Previously led by government sectors, certification is now entrusted to private institutions, allowing for swift and flexible responses. Certified companies are increasingly demanding devices and equipment to continually improve the environmental impact of their business activities.

2. **Recycling of Foundry Waste Sand**
- A company in Aichi Prefecture has started a business to recycle waste sand generated from foundry manufacturing. They introduced a scheme to process the waste sand and reuse it as a raw material for cement. This shift from traditional landfill disposal promotes the reduction of environmental impact and effective use of resources.

3. **Precious Metal Recovery from Mobile Phones**
- The business of recovering precious metals from mobile phones and computers is expanding in China. With the gold content in waste being several times higher than that in ore, the business builds on recycling achievements and secures collection routes for industrial waste, paving the way for future business expansions.

4. **Exhaust Gas Treatment Devices for Ships**
- Nippon Yusen has developed a device to capture particulate matter (PM) emitted from diesel engines on ships. This is a world-first initiative, aiming for self-regulation in anticipation of future stricter regulations. The device contributes to environmental protection and is also considered for external sales.

5. **Wind Turbine Blade Transport Business**
- Nippon Express has introduced new equipment to efficiently transport wind turbine blades. This equipment is expected to meet the demand for installation in mountainous areas, which were previously difficult to access. The sales of wind power-related businesses are projected to increase significantly in FY2005.

6. **Development of Ultra-Fine Biodegradable Fibers**
- Itochu Corporation has established mass production technology for the world's finest biodegradable fibers. With a diameter of 540 nanometers, these fibers excel in breathability and liquid permeability, and are expected to be applied in apparel products and medical materials.

7. **Recycling of Waste Spray Cans**
- Ryo Chemical has launched a business to recycle waste spray cans. They introduced a treatment facility using nitrogen gas, utilizing the contents of the cans as fuel. This has enabled efficient recycling of spray cans and promoted resource reuse.

8. **Development of NAS Batteries**
- NAS batteries (sodium-sulfur batteries) are gaining attention as highly efficient electricity storage devices that complement decentralized power sources and renewable energy generation. These batteries are long-lasting, environmentally friendly, and safe.

9. **Okayama Prefecture's Eco-Town Plan**
- Okayama Prefecture is implementing an innovative Eco-Town plan. The prefecture has enacted an ordinance that supports proposals related to the utilization of circulating resources within the prefecture. This is expected to boost the development of environmental industries tailored to each region.

10. **Promotion of Small Hydropower Generation**
- The introduction of small hydropower generation using agricultural waterways is progressing. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has implemented a subsidy program, resulting in 19 operational power generation facilities to date. The use of agricultural waterways, totaling 400,000 km in length, is expected to create a market worth approximately 80 billion yen.