Promotion and Development of Eco-Activities in Yamashiro Town, Tokushima Prefecture

Promotion and Development of Eco-Activities in Yamashiro Town, Tokushima Prefecture

In 1998, Yamashiro-cho, Tokushima Prefecture, began to engage in environmental preservation activities using natural resources and waste materials unique to the region, with the aim of reducing the environmental burden caused by local industrial activities. The development of building materials that reuse wood, metal, and other waste materials generated as industrial waste was undertaken to promote their reuse as building materials. This building material combines durability and thermal insulation properties and is being used in building projects both within and outside the region. Yamashiro-cho also regularly holds educational events and workshops to raise the environmental awareness of local residents in cooperation with companies. Technology was also introduced to minimize emissions of hazardous chemicals during waste disposal and to manage emissions of heavy metals (lead, cadmium, etc.) while preserving the natural environment. In addition, the disclosure of environmental
assessment information ensured the transparency of the project and gained the understanding and cooperation of the local residents.

In the 2020s, Yamashiro Town further strengthened its efforts regarding environmental conservation and proper disposal of industrial waste. In accordance with the "Fifth Tokushima Prefecture Waste Disposal Plan" formulated for the entire Tokushima Prefecture, the town is working to curb waste emissions and promote recycling. Yamashiro Sangyo Corporation, a major company in the town, has introduced the latest sorting technology, raising its recycling rate from 70% to 85% by FY2023 and reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 500 tons per year in the waste treatment process. In 2022, the company also collaborated with elementary and junior high schools in the town to implement an environmental education program involving approximately 300 students. Students learn about the importance of waste separation and recycling, contributing to raising environmental awareness throughout the community.

Furthermore, guidance is provided throughout Tokushima Prefecture according to the "Tokushima Prefecture Industrial Waste Disposal Guidance Manual," and businesses in Yamashiro Town also ensure proper waste disposal. Through these efforts to preserve the living environment and improve public health, Yamashiro Town is making steady progress toward the realization of a sustainable regional society.