No. 93 - Environmental Technology - Summary - April 2002

No. 93 - Environmental Technology - Summary - April 2002

1. conversion of unused biomass into alcohol fuel
Technology to produce alcohol fuel from unused biomass is attracting attention. In particular, ethanol production using construction waste wood and thinned wood is being promoted, and plans are underway to establish a demonstration plant in Japan. This is expected to reduce environmental impact and energy costs.

2. regional revitalization and creation of environmental businesses
Environmental businesses based on regional resource recycling are attracting attention. Efforts to revitalize regional economies by utilizing resources unique to the region, recycling waste, and conserving the natural environment are on the rise. This is expected to lead to nationwide expansion while addressing issues unique to the region.

3. the eco-road initiative
Eco-roads are a road building concept that emphasizes ecological considerations. A wide variety of methods have been introduced, including appropriate route selection, adoption of bridge and tunnel structures, and securing migration routes for animals. This has led to the development of sustainable infrastructure with minimal impact on the natural environment.

4. decline in rechargeable battery production
In 2001, domestic production of rechargeable batteries declined by about 24%, falling below the previous year's level for the first time in five years, mainly due to a decrease in actual demand caused by the IT recession. In particular, the production of nickel-metal hydride batteries, alkaline storage batteries, and lithium-ion batteries was affected by the significant decrease.

5. award system for environmentally friendly printing plants
The Japan Federation of Printing Industries (JFPI) has established a system to commend printing factories that excel in environmental responsiveness. The selection is based on the high standard of the factory's surrounding environment, work environment, and environmental management system, and the best factories are awarded each year. This initiative contributes to raising environmental awareness throughout the industry.

6. eco-port methodology
Eco-Port is a method of port development that emphasizes environmental conservation. Artificial tidal flats, ripping filters, and permeable breakwaters are introduced to improve the port environment. In this way, water purification and ecosystem protection are promoted and sustainable port operations are aimed at.

Trends in the Amendment of the Law Concerning the Evaluation of Chemical Substances and Regulation of Their Manufacture, etc.
A study group of the Ministry of the Environment has compiled a report on the revision of the Law Concerning the Examination and Regulation of Manufacture, etc. of Chemical Substances. The report recommended the introduction of ecosystem impact testing into the Law on the Evaluation of Chemical Substances and Regulation of Their Manufacture, and the strengthening of risk management measures. This is expected to strengthen regulations on chemical substances that are feared to have an impact on the ecosystem.

Progress in Home Appliance Recycling
One year after the enforcement of the Home Appliance Recycling Law, the number of units collected in the first year exceeded expectations. Major manufacturers such as Matsushita Electric, Hitachi, and Sony have set up recycling sites, and the number of units collected has increased significantly. This has led to an increase in the recycling rate and progress in waste reduction.

9. new market areas for environmental technology
Environmental technologies are attracting attention as a new market field. In particular, environmental businesses are rapidly expanding in line with the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the promotion of a recycling-oriented society. Companies are developing products and services that reduce environmental impact and are expected to create new industries and employment.

10. LCA Environmental Label Certification System
The Japan Environmental Management Association for Industry (JEMAI) will launch an environmental label certification system based on life cycle assessment (LCA). This system certifies product environmental data calculated by companies and issues and publishes labels. It is expected that this will help visualize the environmental performance of products and increase the number of environmentally friendly products that are easy for consumers to choose.