A Boat Wet with Rain, Lingering Love--Memories of the Voice of Aki Yashiro--Until 2023
Aki Yatsushiro was born in Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto Prefecture, in 1950. After overcoming difficulties in her life, she moved to Tokyo and decided to become a singer. 1971 saw her debut but no budding success, and after a period of hardship, in 1973 she hit it big with "Namida Koi". Her voice, full of melancholy and emotion, drew sympathy, and she established herself with "Funauta" (1979) and "Ame no Moyo" (1980), which were followed by "Ame no Moyo" (1980). Ame no Bouejo" was written by Aku Yu and Hama Keisuke, and as the opening line "Ame fure fure fure more fure ......" symbolizes, it is a masterpiece that depicts deep longing and thirst of the heart, and won the Japan Record Award.
Not only an enka singer, she has also been active as a painter since the 2000s, and was selected for "Le Salon" in France. On December 30, 2023, she passed away at the age of 73 due to interstitial pneumonia. Her voice, filled with sorrow and hope, transcended the Showa, Heisei, and 2038 eras, and continues to resonate quietly in the hearts of many even today.
Saturday, May 31, 2025
雨に濡れた舟、恋の余韻――八代亜紀という声の記憶―2023年まで
雨に濡れた舟、恋の余韻――八代亜紀という声の記憶―2023年まで
八代亜紀は1950年、熊本県八代市に生まれ、生活の困難を越え、上京後に歌手を志しました。1971年にデビューするも芽は出ず、苦難の時期を経て、1973年「なみだ恋」で大ヒット。哀愁と情念のこもった声が共感を呼び、続く「舟唄」（1979年）、「雨の慕情」（1980年）で地位を確立。「雨の慕情」は阿久悠・浜圭介の手による作品で、「雨雨ふれふれもっとふれ……」という冒頭が象徴するように、深い慕情と心の渇きを描いた名曲で、日本レコード大賞も受賞しました。
演歌の枠に留まらず、2000年代からは画家としても活躍し、フランス「ル・サロン」に入選。ジャズやブルースにも挑戦し、表現の幅を広げていきました。2023年12月30日、間質性肺炎のため73歳で逝去。哀しみと希望を湛えた彼女の声は、昭和・平成・令和を越えて、今もなお多くの心に静かに響き続けています。
八代亜紀は1950年、熊本県八代市に生まれ、生活の困難を越え、上京後に歌手を志しました。1971年にデビューするも芽は出ず、苦難の時期を経て、1973年「なみだ恋」で大ヒット。哀愁と情念のこもった声が共感を呼び、続く「舟唄」（1979年）、「雨の慕情」（1980年）で地位を確立。「雨の慕情」は阿久悠・浜圭介の手による作品で、「雨雨ふれふれもっとふれ……」という冒頭が象徴するように、深い慕情と心の渇きを描いた名曲で、日本レコード大賞も受賞しました。
演歌の枠に留まらず、2000年代からは画家としても活躍し、フランス「ル・サロン」に入選。ジャズやブルースにも挑戦し、表現の幅を広げていきました。2023年12月30日、間質性肺炎のため73歳で逝去。哀しみと希望を湛えた彼女の声は、昭和・平成・令和を越えて、今もなお多くの心に静かに響き続けています。
The Form of Taxation Asks Those Left Behind - May 2025
The Form of Taxation Asks Those Left Behind - May 2025
I have long been uncomfortable with the taxation system and the social security system. Take, for example, the term "forest environment tax. Despite its beautiful name, the reality is that taxpayers have little sense of how much of that money is actually being used for forest conservation. It is, after all, part of the local allocation mechanism, and the idea that it is for the environment seems to be nothing more than a name. I feel the same discomfort with the environmental tax as a whole. We are convinced that it is "for the environment," but it is too ambiguous as to whether or not it really contributes to environmental conservation.
As for the consumption tax, it is said to be a fair tax, but in reality it is regressive, placing a heavy burden on low-income groups. The structure in which the working people lose out more than the working people also translates into social insurance premiums. I believe that the calculation of insurance premiums should be shifted to a system based on risk and wealth, rather than simply on income criteria. The burden should be balanced based on lifestyle, home ownership, stocks, and other assets. Such a system reform is necessary.
Furthermore, we are also focusing on the inheritance scene. I am not satisfied with the current situation in which the property of a person who has died after paying for expensive medical expenses with public funds goes directly to the bereaved family. I believe that the sustainability of the system can be improved by establishing a mechanism to settle a portion of the medical expenses spent during one's lifetime at the time of inheritance. I strongly feel that now is the time to reexamine the nature of taxation and social security.
I have long been uncomfortable with the taxation system and the social security system. Take, for example, the term "forest environment tax. Despite its beautiful name, the reality is that taxpayers have little sense of how much of that money is actually being used for forest conservation. It is, after all, part of the local allocation mechanism, and the idea that it is for the environment seems to be nothing more than a name. I feel the same discomfort with the environmental tax as a whole. We are convinced that it is "for the environment," but it is too ambiguous as to whether or not it really contributes to environmental conservation.
As for the consumption tax, it is said to be a fair tax, but in reality it is regressive, placing a heavy burden on low-income groups. The structure in which the working people lose out more than the working people also translates into social insurance premiums. I believe that the calculation of insurance premiums should be shifted to a system based on risk and wealth, rather than simply on income criteria. The burden should be balanced based on lifestyle, home ownership, stocks, and other assets. Such a system reform is necessary.
Furthermore, we are also focusing on the inheritance scene. I am not satisfied with the current situation in which the property of a person who has died after paying for expensive medical expenses with public funds goes directly to the bereaved family. I believe that the sustainability of the system can be improved by establishing a mechanism to settle a portion of the medical expenses spent during one's lifetime at the time of inheritance. I strongly feel that now is the time to reexamine the nature of taxation and social security.
遺される者たちに問いかける税のかたち ― 2025年5月
遺される者たちに問いかける税のかたち ― 2025年5月
私は、税制と社会保障制度に対して、かねてから違和感を抱いてきました。たとえば森林環境税という言葉。美しい名目とは裏腹に、そのお金が実際にどれだけ森林保全に使われているのか、納税者の実感は乏しいのが現実です。あれは結局、地方交付の仕組みの一部であり、環境のためという理念は名ばかりに思えます。環境税全体にも、同じような違和感があります。私たちは「環境のため」と言われれば納得してしまいますが、その内実が本当に環境保全に貢献しているのか、あまりにも曖昧です。
消費税についても、公平な税と言われながら、実際には低所得層に重くのしかかる逆進性がある。働く者ほど損をする構造は、社会保険料にも通じています。私は、保険料の算定を、単に所得基準ではなく、リスクや財産に基づく仕組みに転換すべきだと考えています。生活習慣や持ち家、株などの資産を基に、負担のバランスを取る。そうした制度改革が必要です。
さらに、相続の場面にも注目しています。高額な医療費を公費でまかなって亡くなった人の財産が、そのまま遺族に渡る現状に、私は釈然としません。生前に使った医療費の一部を、相続時に清算する仕組みを設けることで、制度の持続可能性を高めることができるのではないでしょうか。今こそ、税と社会保障の本質を問い直す時だと、私は強く感じています。
私は、税制と社会保障制度に対して、かねてから違和感を抱いてきました。たとえば森林環境税という言葉。美しい名目とは裏腹に、そのお金が実際にどれだけ森林保全に使われているのか、納税者の実感は乏しいのが現実です。あれは結局、地方交付の仕組みの一部であり、環境のためという理念は名ばかりに思えます。環境税全体にも、同じような違和感があります。私たちは「環境のため」と言われれば納得してしまいますが、その内実が本当に環境保全に貢献しているのか、あまりにも曖昧です。
消費税についても、公平な税と言われながら、実際には低所得層に重くのしかかる逆進性がある。働く者ほど損をする構造は、社会保険料にも通じています。私は、保険料の算定を、単に所得基準ではなく、リスクや財産に基づく仕組みに転換すべきだと考えています。生活習慣や持ち家、株などの資産を基に、負担のバランスを取る。そうした制度改革が必要です。
さらに、相続の場面にも注目しています。高額な医療費を公費でまかなって亡くなった人の財産が、そのまま遺族に渡る現状に、私は釈然としません。生前に使った医療費の一部を、相続時に清算する仕組みを設けることで、制度の持続可能性を高めることができるのではないでしょうか。今こそ、税と社会保障の本質を問い直す時だと、私は強く感じています。
EM Bacteria for Coastal Purification - July 2003
EM Bacteria for Coastal Purification - July 2003
### 1. Background and Issues
In Zushi City, Kanagawa Prefecture, the decay of seaweed washed ashore caused a significant problem with foul odors. These odors were generated by harmful gases such as hydrogen sulfide and methane, released during the decomposition process. This situation not only caused discomfort to local residents and tourists but also raised environmental and hygiene concerns.
### 2. What are EM Bacteria?
EM (Effective Microorganisms) refers to a group of beneficial microorganisms, including photosynthetic bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, and yeast. These microorganisms contribute to the decomposition of organic matter, fermentation, and suppression of pathogens in natural environments. EM bacteria have been utilized in various fields such as agriculture, environmental conservation, waste treatment, and water purification, and their effectiveness has been confirmed worldwide.
### 3. Coastal Purification Process
In Zushi City, EM bacteria were used to attempt coastal purification. This process involved the following steps:
1. Application of EM Bacteria: EM bacteria were directly sprayed on the decayed seaweed washed ashore. This slowed down the decay process and suppressed the production of harmful substances that cause foul odors.
2. Decomposition of Organic Matter: Once EM bacteria were applied, microorganisms began to decompose the organic matter in the seaweed and sediment. This decomposition process helped reduce the production of harmful gases and mitigate the odor.
3. Environmental Improvement: As the decomposition by EM bacteria progressed, the surrounding environment improved, reducing the generation of foul odors and providing a more pleasant environment for local residents and tourists.
### 4. Effects and Results
As a result of the coastal purification project using EM bacteria, foul odors on the beaches of Zushi City were significantly reduced. The environmental improvement effects of EM bacteria were quickly recognized, and the project received high praise from local residents. This success story demonstrates the potential application of EM bacteria in other regions and environmental conservation efforts, offering a sustainable method for environmental improvement.
### 5. Future Outlook
The use of EM bacteria is not limited to coastal purification but extends to soil improvement, water purification, and various fields such as agriculture and livestock farming. It is expected that this technology will continue to gain attention as a method to reduce environmental impact and regenerate natural environments.
### Conclusion
Coastal purification using EM bacteria has been highly regarded as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method compared to traditional physical removal techniques. The success of this project in Zushi City has highlighted the potential of EM bacteria, which is expected to play a crucial role in future environmental conservation efforts.
### 1. Background and Issues
In Zushi City, Kanagawa Prefecture, the decay of seaweed washed ashore caused a significant problem with foul odors. These odors were generated by harmful gases such as hydrogen sulfide and methane, released during the decomposition process. This situation not only caused discomfort to local residents and tourists but also raised environmental and hygiene concerns.
### 2. What are EM Bacteria?
EM (Effective Microorganisms) refers to a group of beneficial microorganisms, including photosynthetic bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, and yeast. These microorganisms contribute to the decomposition of organic matter, fermentation, and suppression of pathogens in natural environments. EM bacteria have been utilized in various fields such as agriculture, environmental conservation, waste treatment, and water purification, and their effectiveness has been confirmed worldwide.
### 3. Coastal Purification Process
In Zushi City, EM bacteria were used to attempt coastal purification. This process involved the following steps:
1. Application of EM Bacteria: EM bacteria were directly sprayed on the decayed seaweed washed ashore. This slowed down the decay process and suppressed the production of harmful substances that cause foul odors.
2. Decomposition of Organic Matter: Once EM bacteria were applied, microorganisms began to decompose the organic matter in the seaweed and sediment. This decomposition process helped reduce the production of harmful gases and mitigate the odor.
3. Environmental Improvement: As the decomposition by EM bacteria progressed, the surrounding environment improved, reducing the generation of foul odors and providing a more pleasant environment for local residents and tourists.
### 4. Effects and Results
As a result of the coastal purification project using EM bacteria, foul odors on the beaches of Zushi City were significantly reduced. The environmental improvement effects of EM bacteria were quickly recognized, and the project received high praise from local residents. This success story demonstrates the potential application of EM bacteria in other regions and environmental conservation efforts, offering a sustainable method for environmental improvement.
### 5. Future Outlook
The use of EM bacteria is not limited to coastal purification but extends to soil improvement, water purification, and various fields such as agriculture and livestock farming. It is expected that this technology will continue to gain attention as a method to reduce environmental impact and regenerate natural environments.
### Conclusion
Coastal purification using EM bacteria has been highly regarded as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method compared to traditional physical removal techniques. The success of this project in Zushi City has highlighted the potential of EM bacteria, which is expected to play a crucial role in future environmental conservation efforts.
EM Bacteria for Coastal Purification - July 2003
EM Bacteria for Coastal Purification - July 2003
### 1. Background and Issues
In Zushi City, Kanagawa Prefecture, the decay of seaweed washed ashore caused a significant problem with foul odors. These odors were generated by harmful gases such as hydrogen sulfide and methane, released during the decomposition process. This situation not only caused discomfort to local residents and tourists but also raised environmental and hygiene concerns.
### 2. What are EM Bacteria?
EM (Effective Microorganisms) refers to a group of beneficial microorganisms, including photosynthetic bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, and yeast. These microorganisms contribute to the decomposition of organic matter, fermentation, and suppression of pathogens in natural environments. EM bacteria have been utilized in various fields such as agriculture, environmental conservation, waste treatment, and water purification, and their effectiveness has been confirmed worldwide.
### 3. Coastal Purification Process
In Zushi City, EM bacteria were used to attempt coastal purification. This process involved the following steps:
1. Application of EM Bacteria: EM bacteria were directly sprayed on the decayed seaweed washed ashore. This slowed down the decay process and suppressed the production of harmful substances that cause foul odors.
2. Decomposition of Organic Matter: Once EM bacteria were applied, microorganisms began to decompose the organic matter in the seaweed and sediment. This decomposition process helped reduce the production of harmful gases and mitigate the odor.
3. Environmental Improvement: As the decomposition by EM bacteria progressed, the surrounding environment improved, reducing the generation of foul odors and providing a more pleasant environment for local residents and tourists.
### 4. Effects and Results
As a result of the coastal purification project using EM bacteria, foul odors on the beaches of Zushi City were significantly reduced. The environmental improvement effects of EM bacteria were quickly recognized, and the project received high praise from local residents. This success story demonstrates the potential application of EM bacteria in other regions and environmental conservation efforts, offering a sustainable method for environmental improvement.
### 5. Future Outlook
The use of EM bacteria is not limited to coastal purification but extends to soil improvement, water purification, and various fields such as agriculture and livestock farming. It is expected that this technology will continue to gain attention as a method to reduce environmental impact and regenerate natural environments.
### Conclusion
Coastal purification using EM bacteria has been highly regarded as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method compared to traditional physical removal techniques. The success of this project in Zushi City has highlighted the potential of EM bacteria, which is expected to play a crucial role in future environmental conservation efforts.
### 1. Background and Issues
In Zushi City, Kanagawa Prefecture, the decay of seaweed washed ashore caused a significant problem with foul odors. These odors were generated by harmful gases such as hydrogen sulfide and methane, released during the decomposition process. This situation not only caused discomfort to local residents and tourists but also raised environmental and hygiene concerns.
### 2. What are EM Bacteria?
EM (Effective Microorganisms) refers to a group of beneficial microorganisms, including photosynthetic bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, and yeast. These microorganisms contribute to the decomposition of organic matter, fermentation, and suppression of pathogens in natural environments. EM bacteria have been utilized in various fields such as agriculture, environmental conservation, waste treatment, and water purification, and their effectiveness has been confirmed worldwide.
### 3. Coastal Purification Process
In Zushi City, EM bacteria were used to attempt coastal purification. This process involved the following steps:
1. Application of EM Bacteria: EM bacteria were directly sprayed on the decayed seaweed washed ashore. This slowed down the decay process and suppressed the production of harmful substances that cause foul odors.
2. Decomposition of Organic Matter: Once EM bacteria were applied, microorganisms began to decompose the organic matter in the seaweed and sediment. This decomposition process helped reduce the production of harmful gases and mitigate the odor.
3. Environmental Improvement: As the decomposition by EM bacteria progressed, the surrounding environment improved, reducing the generation of foul odors and providing a more pleasant environment for local residents and tourists.
### 4. Effects and Results
As a result of the coastal purification project using EM bacteria, foul odors on the beaches of Zushi City were significantly reduced. The environmental improvement effects of EM bacteria were quickly recognized, and the project received high praise from local residents. This success story demonstrates the potential application of EM bacteria in other regions and environmental conservation efforts, offering a sustainable method for environmental improvement.
### 5. Future Outlook
The use of EM bacteria is not limited to coastal purification but extends to soil improvement, water purification, and various fields such as agriculture and livestock farming. It is expected that this technology will continue to gain attention as a method to reduce environmental impact and regenerate natural environments.
### Conclusion
Coastal purification using EM bacteria has been highly regarded as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method compared to traditional physical removal techniques. The success of this project in Zushi City has highlighted the potential of EM bacteria, which is expected to play a crucial role in future environmental conservation efforts.
Love on a Wet Boat--Aki Yashiro, Song Narrative of Sorrow and Emotion - to 2023
Love on a Wet Boat--Aki Yashiro, Song Narrative of Sorrow and Emotion - to 2023
Aki Yashiro was born on August 29, 1950 in Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, and her real name is Akiyo Hashimoto. Growing up in a coal mining town, she lived in poverty and loneliness from an early age, relying on singing. After graduating from high school, she moved to Tokyo to pursue her dream, but was pushed back by the harshness of the world, and her heart was so shaken that she sometimes almost gave up her dream of becoming a singer.
Finally, in 1971, she made her debut with "Even If Love Dies. However, the road to success was far from smooth sailing. Nevertheless, she never stopped singing, and her passion for singing finally blossomed in 1973 with "Namida Koi. When this song became a big hit, Yatsushiro's voice was recognized for its melancholy and ability to touch people's hearts.
In "Funauta" (1979) and "Ame no Kojo" (1980), Yatsushiro sang about the shadows of life. In his voice, the traces of his former confusion and resurrection are engraved, striking a chord in the hearts of those who hear him. She won the Japan Record Award for "Ame no Boujo" and appeared many times on NHK's Kohaku Uta Gassen (Red and White Singing Contest). She has established her reputation as the queen of enka (traditional Japanese balladry), but behind her lies layers and layers of past silence and solitary, invisible efforts.
In particular, "Ame no Boujo," released in 1980, is a milestone in the history of enka in Japan. The golden duo of lyricist Yu Aku and composer Keisuke Hama once again teamed up to depict the deep longing for love that is still there in the hearts of those who seek it by getting drenched in the rain and revealing the wounds in their hearts. The opening phrase "Ame ame fure fure fure more fure ......" is reminiscent of a children's song, but in fact it is a concentrated blow of the emotions of loss and longing.
This song is not just a song about lost love. It is a testament to the "life" of a person whose love is broken, but who still continues to think of someone else deep in his heart. The arrangement changes from a quiet rain-like tone in the beginning to an overflowing passion, as if a wave of emotion is slowly filling the listener's heart. Yashiro's rich voice and her use of verses in this song relentlessly shakes the hearts of the listeners. With this song, Yatsushiro has transcended the framework of enka and become a national singer.
In the 2000s, Yatsushiro took on a new challenge. Seeking a different form of expression from her former self, she began working in earnest as a painter. He was selected for the "Le Salon" in France, and began to depict his inner feelings through his paintbrush. In addition to enka (traditional Japanese balladry), he also dabbled in other genres such as jazz and blues. This was her very own way of moving forward even though she was lost in her search for new forms of expression.
On December 30, 2023, she passed away at the age of 73 due to interstitial pneumonia. The news of her death marked the end of a soul who had lived through the Showa era, the Heisei era, and the 2021 era. Her voice, however, was born amidst confusion, grew up amidst suffering, and shone beyond hope. Even now, like a boat in the rain, she remains quietly but surely close to the heart of Japan.
Aki Yashiro was born on August 29, 1950 in Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, and her real name is Akiyo Hashimoto. Growing up in a coal mining town, she lived in poverty and loneliness from an early age, relying on singing. After graduating from high school, she moved to Tokyo to pursue her dream, but was pushed back by the harshness of the world, and her heart was so shaken that she sometimes almost gave up her dream of becoming a singer.
Finally, in 1971, she made her debut with "Even If Love Dies. However, the road to success was far from smooth sailing. Nevertheless, she never stopped singing, and her passion for singing finally blossomed in 1973 with "Namida Koi. When this song became a big hit, Yatsushiro's voice was recognized for its melancholy and ability to touch people's hearts.
In "Funauta" (1979) and "Ame no Kojo" (1980), Yatsushiro sang about the shadows of life. In his voice, the traces of his former confusion and resurrection are engraved, striking a chord in the hearts of those who hear him. She won the Japan Record Award for "Ame no Boujo" and appeared many times on NHK's Kohaku Uta Gassen (Red and White Singing Contest). She has established her reputation as the queen of enka (traditional Japanese balladry), but behind her lies layers and layers of past silence and solitary, invisible efforts.
In particular, "Ame no Boujo," released in 1980, is a milestone in the history of enka in Japan. The golden duo of lyricist Yu Aku and composer Keisuke Hama once again teamed up to depict the deep longing for love that is still there in the hearts of those who seek it by getting drenched in the rain and revealing the wounds in their hearts. The opening phrase "Ame ame fure fure fure more fure ......" is reminiscent of a children's song, but in fact it is a concentrated blow of the emotions of loss and longing.
This song is not just a song about lost love. It is a testament to the "life" of a person whose love is broken, but who still continues to think of someone else deep in his heart. The arrangement changes from a quiet rain-like tone in the beginning to an overflowing passion, as if a wave of emotion is slowly filling the listener's heart. Yashiro's rich voice and her use of verses in this song relentlessly shakes the hearts of the listeners. With this song, Yatsushiro has transcended the framework of enka and become a national singer.
In the 2000s, Yatsushiro took on a new challenge. Seeking a different form of expression from her former self, she began working in earnest as a painter. He was selected for the "Le Salon" in France, and began to depict his inner feelings through his paintbrush. In addition to enka (traditional Japanese balladry), he also dabbled in other genres such as jazz and blues. This was her very own way of moving forward even though she was lost in her search for new forms of expression.
On December 30, 2023, she passed away at the age of 73 due to interstitial pneumonia. The news of her death marked the end of a soul who had lived through the Showa era, the Heisei era, and the 2021 era. Her voice, however, was born amidst confusion, grew up amidst suffering, and shone beyond hope. Even now, like a boat in the rain, she remains quietly but surely close to the heart of Japan.
濡れそぼちた舟に乗る恋――八代亜紀、哀しみと情念の歌語り―2023年まで
濡れそぼちた舟に乗る恋――八代亜紀、哀しみと情念の歌語り―2023年まで
八代亜紀は1950年8月29日、熊本県八代市に生まれ、本名を橋本明代といいます。炭鉱町に育ち、幼い頃から貧しさと孤独の中で歌を頼りに生きてきました。高校卒業後、夢を追って上京するも世の中の厳しさに押し返され、時に歌手になる夢を諦めかけるほど心は揺れました。
ようやく1971年に「愛は死んでも」でデビュー。だが成功の道は遠く決して順風満帆ではありませんでした。それでも歌うことだけはやめなかった彼女の情念が1973年「なみだ恋」でついに花開きます。この曲が大ヒットを記録したとき八代の歌声は哀愁とともに人々の深層に触れる力を持つものとして認められました。
「舟唄」（1979年）や「雨の慕情」（1980年）といった作品でも人生の陰影を歌い抜いた八代。その歌声にはかつての迷いと再起の痕跡が刻まれており聴く者の心を打ちます。「雨の慕情」で日本レコード大賞を受賞しNHK紅白歌合戦にも幾度となく登場。演歌の女王としての名声を確立しますがその背後には過去の沈黙と孤独見えない努力が幾重にも折り重なっていたのです。
特に「雨の慕情」は1980年に発表され日本演歌史に刻まれる金字塔的な楽曲です。作詞・阿久悠、作曲・浜圭介の黄金コンビが再びタッグを組み雨に濡れることで心の傷を晒しなおも恋を求める――そんな深い慕情を描きました。「雨雨ふれふれもっとふれ……」という冒頭のフレーズは童謡を思わせながらその実喪失と渇望の情を凝縮した一撃です。
この曲は単なる失恋歌ではありません。愛に破れそれでもなお心の奥底で誰かを想い続ける"生"の証し。アレンジも静かな雨音のような序盤から情熱があふれ出すような展開へと変化し、まるで感情の波がじわじわと胸を満たしていくかのようです。八代の豊かな声量と節回しがそこに乗り聴く者の心を容赦なく揺さぶります。この歌によって彼女は演歌の枠を超え国民的歌手へと昇華したのです。
2000年代に入り八代はまた新たな挑戦を始めます。かつての自分とは異なる表現を求め画家としての活動を本格化。フランスの「ル・サロン」にも入選し絵筆を通して心の内を描くようになります。さらに演歌にとどまらずジャズやブルースなど異なるジャンルにも手を伸ばしました。それは新たな表現を模索する中で迷いながらもなお前へ進もうとする彼女自身の姿そのものでした。
2023年12月30日、間質性肺炎のため73歳で逝去。その知らせは多くの人々に昭和・平成・令和を通じて生きた一人の魂の終幕を告げました。けれども彼女の声は迷いの中で生まれ苦しみの中で育ち希望の先で輝いたもの。今もなお雨に濡れた舟のように静かに、だが確かに、日本の心に寄り添っています。
八代亜紀は1950年8月29日、熊本県八代市に生まれ、本名を橋本明代といいます。炭鉱町に育ち、幼い頃から貧しさと孤独の中で歌を頼りに生きてきました。高校卒業後、夢を追って上京するも世の中の厳しさに押し返され、時に歌手になる夢を諦めかけるほど心は揺れました。
ようやく1971年に「愛は死んでも」でデビュー。だが成功の道は遠く決して順風満帆ではありませんでした。それでも歌うことだけはやめなかった彼女の情念が1973年「なみだ恋」でついに花開きます。この曲が大ヒットを記録したとき八代の歌声は哀愁とともに人々の深層に触れる力を持つものとして認められました。
「舟唄」（1979年）や「雨の慕情」（1980年）といった作品でも人生の陰影を歌い抜いた八代。その歌声にはかつての迷いと再起の痕跡が刻まれており聴く者の心を打ちます。「雨の慕情」で日本レコード大賞を受賞しNHK紅白歌合戦にも幾度となく登場。演歌の女王としての名声を確立しますがその背後には過去の沈黙と孤独見えない努力が幾重にも折り重なっていたのです。
特に「雨の慕情」は1980年に発表され日本演歌史に刻まれる金字塔的な楽曲です。作詞・阿久悠、作曲・浜圭介の黄金コンビが再びタッグを組み雨に濡れることで心の傷を晒しなおも恋を求める――そんな深い慕情を描きました。「雨雨ふれふれもっとふれ……」という冒頭のフレーズは童謡を思わせながらその実喪失と渇望の情を凝縮した一撃です。
この曲は単なる失恋歌ではありません。愛に破れそれでもなお心の奥底で誰かを想い続ける"生"の証し。アレンジも静かな雨音のような序盤から情熱があふれ出すような展開へと変化し、まるで感情の波がじわじわと胸を満たしていくかのようです。八代の豊かな声量と節回しがそこに乗り聴く者の心を容赦なく揺さぶります。この歌によって彼女は演歌の枠を超え国民的歌手へと昇華したのです。
2000年代に入り八代はまた新たな挑戦を始めます。かつての自分とは異なる表現を求め画家としての活動を本格化。フランスの「ル・サロン」にも入選し絵筆を通して心の内を描くようになります。さらに演歌にとどまらずジャズやブルースなど異なるジャンルにも手を伸ばしました。それは新たな表現を模索する中で迷いながらもなお前へ進もうとする彼女自身の姿そのものでした。
2023年12月30日、間質性肺炎のため73歳で逝去。その知らせは多くの人々に昭和・平成・令和を通じて生きた一人の魂の終幕を告げました。けれども彼女の声は迷いの中で生まれ苦しみの中で育ち希望の先で輝いたもの。今もなお雨に濡れた舟のように静かに、だが確かに、日本の心に寄り添っています。
Chongqing Air Pollution Control Overview - 1997 to 2020s
Chongqing Air Pollution Control Overview - 1997 to 2020s
Chongqing's air pollution control progressed from 1997 to the 2020s: in 1997, emission standards were tightened, old vehicles were phased out, and coal consumption was reduced; in the 2000s, the Three Gorges Dam was completed to promote hydroelectric power generation and improve public transportation; in the 2010s, electric vehicles (EVs) became more common and industrial emissions were reduced. In the 2010s, the use of electric vehicles (EVs) and reduction of industrial emissions progressed, and PM2.5 concentrations improved from 70 μg/m³ to 50 μg/m³; by the 2020s, they had dropped to an average of 35 μg/m³, with hydropower and renewable energy sources accounting for 40% of total power generation. Chronic respiratory diseases decreased by 30% compared to the 2010s, but traffic congestion and smog problems remain a challenge. Efforts continue to be made to balance environmental protection and economic growth.
Chongqing's air pollution control progressed from 1997 to the 2020s: in 1997, emission standards were tightened, old vehicles were phased out, and coal consumption was reduced; in the 2000s, the Three Gorges Dam was completed to promote hydroelectric power generation and improve public transportation; in the 2010s, electric vehicles (EVs) became more common and industrial emissions were reduced. In the 2010s, the use of electric vehicles (EVs) and reduction of industrial emissions progressed, and PM2.5 concentrations improved from 70 μg/m³ to 50 μg/m³; by the 2020s, they had dropped to an average of 35 μg/m³, with hydropower and renewable energy sources accounting for 40% of total power generation. Chronic respiratory diseases decreased by 30% compared to the 2010s, but traffic congestion and smog problems remain a challenge. Efforts continue to be made to balance environmental protection and economic growth.
重慶市の大気汚染対策の概要 - 1997年から2020年代まで
重慶市の大気汚染対策の概要 - 1997年から2020年代まで
重慶市では、1997年から2020年代にかけて大気汚染対策が進展しました。1997年には排ガス基準の強化や老朽車両の廃止、石炭消費削減が行われました。2000年代には、三峡ダムの完成による水力発電の普及や公共交通機関の整備が進みました。2010年代には電気自動車（EV）の普及と産業排出量の削減が進行し、PM2.5濃度が70μg/m³から50μg/m³に改善。2020年代には平均35μg/m³に低下し、水力や再生可能エネルギーが全電力の40%を占めました。慢性呼吸器疾患は2010年代比で30%減少しましたが、交通渋滞やスモッグ問題は依然として課題です。環境保全と経済成長の両立を目指す取り組みが続けられています。
重慶市では、1997年から2020年代にかけて大気汚染対策が進展しました。1997年には排ガス基準の強化や老朽車両の廃止、石炭消費削減が行われました。2000年代には、三峡ダムの完成による水力発電の普及や公共交通機関の整備が進みました。2010年代には電気自動車（EV）の普及と産業排出量の削減が進行し、PM2.5濃度が70μg/m³から50μg/m³に改善。2020年代には平均35μg/m³に低下し、水力や再生可能エネルギーが全電力の40%を占めました。慢性呼吸器疾患は2010年代比で30%減少しましたが、交通渋滞やスモッグ問題は依然として課題です。環境保全と経済成長の両立を目指す取り組みが続けられています。
Environmental Management System (EMS) Standard
Environmental Management System (EMS) Standard
Signs of expansion in the support business for ISO 14001 certified sites. Currently, the number of ISO 14001 certified sites in Japan has exceeded 5,500, with another 200 sites obtaining certification each month. While acquisition of certification is flourishing, the reality is that many sites do not know what exactly to do after acquisition, or are having trouble finding the benefits of certification. Some of them even say they want to return the certification. The number of consulting services to take care of such certified sites is gradually increasing.
The reason for this is that, when establishing an EMS, the system for the purpose of obtaining ISO 14001 certification and registration for audit has taken precedence, and there is a lack of consideration for the specific operation of the EMS. Many of the consultants who provide support are, in other words, "documenters" and "manualists," and many of them only work with clerical and mechanical systems and do not suggest ways to improve environmental impact after certification, and in many cases, they still do not go beyond the scope of internal site pollution control. The consultants also focus on creating manuals for certification, and as a result, the EMS they have built and introduced has no substance, and the P.D.C.A. does not work. Environmental policies are similar, and if the name of the site is withheld, it is sometimes difficult to distinguish which site it is.
A few days ago, a person in charge of a certified site consulted with us about the proper disposal of wood waste from the site. According to him, they used to burn that waste in an incinerator, but now they have to improve it in line with the recycling rate they have set as a target. But we don't know how to do that. One way is to incinerate it and recover the heat, another is to turn it into MDF, and carbonization is also possible. There are many options for recycling, and they do not know what they should do in terms of environmental efficiency. He also pointed out the delay in employee training for the continuous operation of the EMS, and concrete issues are becoming apparent at sites that have acquired ISO 14001 certification. Taking care of such certified sites is a viable business.
Signs of expansion in the support business for ISO 14001 certified sites. Currently, the number of ISO 14001 certified sites in Japan has exceeded 5,500, with another 200 sites obtaining certification each month. While acquisition of certification is flourishing, the reality is that many sites do not know what exactly to do after acquisition, or are having trouble finding the benefits of certification. Some of them even say they want to return the certification. The number of consulting services to take care of such certified sites is gradually increasing.
The reason for this is that, when establishing an EMS, the system for the purpose of obtaining ISO 14001 certification and registration for audit has taken precedence, and there is a lack of consideration for the specific operation of the EMS. Many of the consultants who provide support are, in other words, "documenters" and "manualists," and many of them only work with clerical and mechanical systems and do not suggest ways to improve environmental impact after certification, and in many cases, they still do not go beyond the scope of internal site pollution control. The consultants also focus on creating manuals for certification, and as a result, the EMS they have built and introduced has no substance, and the P.D.C.A. does not work. Environmental policies are similar, and if the name of the site is withheld, it is sometimes difficult to distinguish which site it is.
A few days ago, a person in charge of a certified site consulted with us about the proper disposal of wood waste from the site. According to him, they used to burn that waste in an incinerator, but now they have to improve it in line with the recycling rate they have set as a target. But we don't know how to do that. One way is to incinerate it and recover the heat, another is to turn it into MDF, and carbonization is also possible. There are many options for recycling, and they do not know what they should do in terms of environmental efficiency. He also pointed out the delay in employee training for the continuous operation of the EMS, and concrete issues are becoming apparent at sites that have acquired ISO 14001 certification. Taking care of such certified sites is a viable business.
「環境マネジメントシステム(EMS)規格」
「環境マネジメントシステム(EMS)規格」
ISO14001認証取得サイトへの支援ビジネスが拡大する兆し。現在、日本におけるISO14001の認証取得サイトは5500を突破、さらに毎月約200サイトが認証を得ている。取得が花盛りの一方、多くのサイトで取得後、具体的に何をどうしたら良いのか分からなかったり、認証したメリットを見出せずに困っているのが実情。中には「認証を返上したい」という声もちらほら。そうした認証取得サイトへのケアを行うコンサルティングの件数が次第に増えている。
背景としてEMS構築に際し、ISO14001の認証取得、審査登録を目的とした仕組みが先行し、具体的な運用の配慮が欠如しているからだと思われる。支援コンサルの中には、いってみれば「ドキュメント屋」「マニュアル屋」も多く、事務的・機械的に仕組みだけをこなし、認証後の環境負荷改善の方法を示唆することなく、相変わらずサイト内の公害対策の域を脱しないケースが多い。コンサルを受ける側も認証取得のマニュアルづくりに注力し、結果、せっかく構築・導入したEMSの中身がなくてP.D.C.Aが動かない。環境方針も似たり寄ったりで、サイト名を伏せてしまうとどこのサイトなのか見分けがつかなかったりする。
過日、認証取得サイトの担当者からサイト内で出る木くずの適正処理について相談を受けた。彼によると、従来はその廃棄物を焼却炉で燃やしていたが、これからは目標に掲げたリサイクル率に沿って改善していかなくてはならない。だが、その方法がわからない。焼却して熱回収する方法もあれば、MDFにすることも考えられるし、炭化も可能。リサイクルの選択肢はさらにあり、環境効率なども考慮するといったいどうすれば良いのか分からないという。そしてこれから継続的にEMSを運用していくに当たり、従業員教育の遅れも指摘していた。ISO14001認証取得サイトで具体的な課題が顕在化しつつある。こうした取得サイトのケアがビジネスとして成立する。
ISO14001認証取得サイトへの支援ビジネスが拡大する兆し。現在、日本におけるISO14001の認証取得サイトは5500を突破、さらに毎月約200サイトが認証を得ている。取得が花盛りの一方、多くのサイトで取得後、具体的に何をどうしたら良いのか分からなかったり、認証したメリットを見出せずに困っているのが実情。中には「認証を返上したい」という声もちらほら。そうした認証取得サイトへのケアを行うコンサルティングの件数が次第に増えている。
背景としてEMS構築に際し、ISO14001の認証取得、審査登録を目的とした仕組みが先行し、具体的な運用の配慮が欠如しているからだと思われる。支援コンサルの中には、いってみれば「ドキュメント屋」「マニュアル屋」も多く、事務的・機械的に仕組みだけをこなし、認証後の環境負荷改善の方法を示唆することなく、相変わらずサイト内の公害対策の域を脱しないケースが多い。コンサルを受ける側も認証取得のマニュアルづくりに注力し、結果、せっかく構築・導入したEMSの中身がなくてP.D.C.Aが動かない。環境方針も似たり寄ったりで、サイト名を伏せてしまうとどこのサイトなのか見分けがつかなかったりする。
過日、認証取得サイトの担当者からサイト内で出る木くずの適正処理について相談を受けた。彼によると、従来はその廃棄物を焼却炉で燃やしていたが、これからは目標に掲げたリサイクル率に沿って改善していかなくてはならない。だが、その方法がわからない。焼却して熱回収する方法もあれば、MDFにすることも考えられるし、炭化も可能。リサイクルの選択肢はさらにあり、環境効率なども考慮するといったいどうすれば良いのか分からないという。そしてこれから継続的にEMSを運用していくに当たり、従業員教育の遅れも指摘していた。ISO14001認証取得サイトで具体的な課題が顕在化しつつある。こうした取得サイトのケアがビジネスとして成立する。
Kinichi Hagimoto and Kontro 55 - Laughter in the Period of High Economic Growth" Summary
Kinichi Hagimoto and Kontro 55 - Laughter in the Period of High Economic Growth" Summary
Formed at the end of the 1960s, Conto 55 was characterized by fast-paced gags and physical action performed by Kinichi Hagimoto and Jiro Sakagami. They were active during the period when television was gaining popularity, and their programs, such as "Kin-don! and other programs that garnered viewership ratings of over 40%. Their comedy, which blended regional and urban sensibilities, was popular throughout the country. Their style influenced later generations of comedians and became the foundation for shaping Japan's comedy culture. Hagimoto's creativity and Sakagami's flexible performance brought familiarity and fun to the audience and carried on the philosophy of laughter.
Formed at the end of the 1960s, Conto 55 was characterized by fast-paced gags and physical action performed by Kinichi Hagimoto and Jiro Sakagami. They were active during the period when television was gaining popularity, and their programs, such as "Kin-don! and other programs that garnered viewership ratings of over 40%. Their comedy, which blended regional and urban sensibilities, was popular throughout the country. Their style influenced later generations of comedians and became the foundation for shaping Japan's comedy culture. Hagimoto's creativity and Sakagami's flexible performance brought familiarity and fun to the audience and carried on the philosophy of laughter.
「萩本欽一とコント55号—高度経済成長期の笑い」要約
「萩本欽一とコント55号—高度経済成長期の笑い」要約
1960年代末に結成されたコント55号は、萩本欽一と坂上二郎が繰り出すテンポの速いギャグと身体的アクションが特徴でした。テレビ普及期に活躍し、「欽ドン！」など視聴率40％超の番組で人気を博しました。高度経済成長期のストレス社会において、笑いを通じて人々の癒やしを提供し、地方と都会の感覚を融合させた笑いは全国的に支持されました。彼らのスタイルは、後の世代の芸人にも影響を与え、日本のお笑い文化を形作る基盤となりました。萩本の創造性と坂上の柔軟な演技は、視聴者に親しみやすさと楽しさを届け、笑いの哲学を継承しました。
1960年代末に結成されたコント55号は、萩本欽一と坂上二郎が繰り出すテンポの速いギャグと身体的アクションが特徴でした。テレビ普及期に活躍し、「欽ドン！」など視聴率40％超の番組で人気を博しました。高度経済成長期のストレス社会において、笑いを通じて人々の癒やしを提供し、地方と都会の感覚を融合させた笑いは全国的に支持されました。彼らのスタイルは、後の世代の芸人にも影響を与え、日本のお笑い文化を形作る基盤となりました。萩本の創造性と坂上の柔軟な演技は、視聴者に親しみやすさと楽しさを届け、笑いの哲学を継承しました。
Deterioration of Water Pollution in Kasumigaura - July 1996
Deterioration of Water Pollution in Kasumigaura - July 1996
Pollution in Kasumigaura is caused by phosphorus and nitrogen in domestic and agricultural wastewater from the Tsuchiura and Tsukuba Cities area in Ibaraki Prefecture, which has led to eutrophication. In 1973, a large outbreak of blue-green algae was observed, resulting in mass mortality of farmed fish. Urbanization has reduced the amount of wetlands, and the natural purification function of the lake has also declined. The lake is shallow, with an average depth of approximately 4 meters, and its residence time is as long as 200 days or more, making it prone to accumulation of incoming pollutants. In addition, wastewater containing zinc and lead from factories in Tsuchiura and Ryukesaki cities, as well as fertilizers and pesticides from agricultural lands, have also magnified the problem. In particular, wastewater from the livestock industry accounts for 33% of Kasumigaura's total nitrogen load and 20% of domestic wastewater, and combined with the delay in environmental measur
es by corporations, the pollution has become more serious.
Pollution in Kasumigaura is caused by phosphorus and nitrogen in domestic and agricultural wastewater from the Tsuchiura and Tsukuba Cities area in Ibaraki Prefecture, which has led to eutrophication. In 1973, a large outbreak of blue-green algae was observed, resulting in mass mortality of farmed fish. Urbanization has reduced the amount of wetlands, and the natural purification function of the lake has also declined. The lake is shallow, with an average depth of approximately 4 meters, and its residence time is as long as 200 days or more, making it prone to accumulation of incoming pollutants. In addition, wastewater containing zinc and lead from factories in Tsuchiura and Ryukesaki cities, as well as fertilizers and pesticides from agricultural lands, have also magnified the problem. In particular, wastewater from the livestock industry accounts for 33% of Kasumigaura's total nitrogen load and 20% of domestic wastewater, and combined with the delay in environmental measur
es by corporations, the pollution has become more serious.
霞ヶ浦の水質汚染の悪化 - 1996年7月
霞ヶ浦の水質汚染の悪化 - 1996年7月
霞ヶ浦の汚染は、茨城県土浦市やつくば市周辺からの生活排水や農業排水に含まれるリンや窒素が原因で富栄養化が進行し、1973年にはアオコの大発生による養殖魚の大量死が確認されました。都市化で湿地帯が減少し、自然の浄化機能も低下しています。湖は平均水深約4メートルと浅く、滞留時間が200日以上と長いため、流入する汚染物質が蓄積しやすい構造です。さらに、土浦市や龍ケ崎市の工場からの亜鉛・鉛を含む排水、農地からの肥料や農薬も問題を拡大させています。特に畜産業由来の排水が霞ヶ浦の全窒素負荷の33％、生活排水が20％を占め、企業の環境対策の遅れと相まって、汚染が深刻化しました。
霞ヶ浦の汚染は、茨城県土浦市やつくば市周辺からの生活排水や農業排水に含まれるリンや窒素が原因で富栄養化が進行し、1973年にはアオコの大発生による養殖魚の大量死が確認されました。都市化で湿地帯が減少し、自然の浄化機能も低下しています。湖は平均水深約4メートルと浅く、滞留時間が200日以上と長いため、流入する汚染物質が蓄積しやすい構造です。さらに、土浦市や龍ケ崎市の工場からの亜鉛・鉛を含む排水、農地からの肥料や農薬も問題を拡大させています。特に畜産業由来の排水が霞ヶ浦の全窒素負荷の33％、生活排水が20％を占め、企業の環境対策の遅れと相まって、汚染が深刻化しました。
Shinjuku Gyoen green space effect - October 2024
Shinjuku Gyoen green space effect - October 2024
Green Space Effectiveness and Current Status of Shinjuku Gyoen
Shinjuku Gyoen, located in Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, is a vast green space in the center of Tokyo, covering an area of approximately 58.3 hectares. This green space plays an important role in mitigating the urban heat island effect. Recent surveys have shown a temperature difference of approximately 3.5 to 5 degrees Celsius compared to the surrounding Shinjuku Station area, maintaining a cool environment not only during the daytime but also at night. Particularly during the summer months, the area provides a comfortable environment for visitors, alleviating the extreme heat of the urban area.
According to 2023 data, the green space in Shinjuku Gyoen is reported to absorb approximately 1,500 tons of CO2 per year, making it one of the most effective green spaces in Tokyo. The Gyoen contains a diverse array of broadleaf and coniferous vegetation, all of which contribute to the purification of urban air and the absorption of CO2. It is especially famous for its many cherry trees and maple trees, which allow visitors to enjoy the scenery of the four seasons.
In terms of environmental technology, the Gyoen is also taking a progressive approach. A joint project between Tokyo Electric Power Company and Hitachi Landscaping Co. is underway to manage the plantings using low-emission electric equipment. In addition, solar panels were installed in some of the administration buildings in 2019, providing approximately 50 MWh of electricity annually, which is used for lighting and facility operations in the Gyoen. In addition to this, a rainwater reuse system has been installed, which is used for watering plants and toilets.
Furthermore, Shinjuku Gyoen has been positioned as a "model urban green space" by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and has been featured in international environmental conferences as part of sustainable urban development since 2020. In this way, Shinjuku Gyoen continues to attract attention from Japan and abroad as a model case for heat island countermeasures and urban CO2 reduction.
Green Space Effectiveness and Current Status of Shinjuku Gyoen
Shinjuku Gyoen, located in Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, is a vast green space in the center of Tokyo, covering an area of approximately 58.3 hectares. This green space plays an important role in mitigating the urban heat island effect. Recent surveys have shown a temperature difference of approximately 3.5 to 5 degrees Celsius compared to the surrounding Shinjuku Station area, maintaining a cool environment not only during the daytime but also at night. Particularly during the summer months, the area provides a comfortable environment for visitors, alleviating the extreme heat of the urban area.
According to 2023 data, the green space in Shinjuku Gyoen is reported to absorb approximately 1,500 tons of CO2 per year, making it one of the most effective green spaces in Tokyo. The Gyoen contains a diverse array of broadleaf and coniferous vegetation, all of which contribute to the purification of urban air and the absorption of CO2. It is especially famous for its many cherry trees and maple trees, which allow visitors to enjoy the scenery of the four seasons.
In terms of environmental technology, the Gyoen is also taking a progressive approach. A joint project between Tokyo Electric Power Company and Hitachi Landscaping Co. is underway to manage the plantings using low-emission electric equipment. In addition, solar panels were installed in some of the administration buildings in 2019, providing approximately 50 MWh of electricity annually, which is used for lighting and facility operations in the Gyoen. In addition to this, a rainwater reuse system has been installed, which is used for watering plants and toilets.
Furthermore, Shinjuku Gyoen has been positioned as a "model urban green space" by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and has been featured in international environmental conferences as part of sustainable urban development since 2020. In this way, Shinjuku Gyoen continues to attract attention from Japan and abroad as a model case for heat island countermeasures and urban CO2 reduction.
新宿御苑の緑地効果-2024年10月
新宿御苑の緑地効果-2024年10月
新宿御苑の緑地効果と現状
東京都新宿区の新宿御苑は、東京の中心部に位置する広大な緑地空間で、約58.3ヘクタールの敷地を有しています。この緑地は、都市のヒートアイランド現象を和らげるために重要な役割を担っています。近年の調査では、周辺の新宿駅エリアと比べて、約3.5～5度の気温差が確認されており、日中だけでなく夜間も涼しい環境を維持しています。特に夏季には、都市部の異常な暑さを緩和し、訪れる人々に快適な環境を提供しています。
2023年のデータでは、新宿御苑内の緑地が年間約1500トンのCO2を吸収していると報告されており、この効果は都内でもトップクラスです。御苑内には、広葉樹や針葉樹などの多様な植生があり、これらが都市部での空気の浄化やCO2の吸収に貢献しています。特に桜の木やカエデなどが多く植えられ、四季折々の風景が楽しめる場所としても有名です。
環境技術の面でも、御苑は先進的な取り組みを行っています。東京電力と日立造園株式会社が共同で行っているプロジェクトでは、低排出型の電動機器を使用した植栽管理が進められています。また、2019年には太陽光発電パネルが一部の管理棟に設置され、年間で約50MWhの電力を供給し、御苑内の照明や施設運営に使用されています。これに加えて、雨水を再利用するシステムが導入され、植栽の水やりやトイレの水として活用されています。
さらに、新宿御苑は東京都の「都市型緑地のモデル」として位置づけられており、2020年からは持続可能な都市開発の一環として、国際的な環境会議でも取り上げられています。このように、新宿御苑はヒートアイランド対策や都市のCO2削減におけるモデルケースとして国内外から注目され続けています。
新宿御苑の緑地効果と現状
東京都新宿区の新宿御苑は、東京の中心部に位置する広大な緑地空間で、約58.3ヘクタールの敷地を有しています。この緑地は、都市のヒートアイランド現象を和らげるために重要な役割を担っています。近年の調査では、周辺の新宿駅エリアと比べて、約3.5～5度の気温差が確認されており、日中だけでなく夜間も涼しい環境を維持しています。特に夏季には、都市部の異常な暑さを緩和し、訪れる人々に快適な環境を提供しています。
2023年のデータでは、新宿御苑内の緑地が年間約1500トンのCO2を吸収していると報告されており、この効果は都内でもトップクラスです。御苑内には、広葉樹や針葉樹などの多様な植生があり、これらが都市部での空気の浄化やCO2の吸収に貢献しています。特に桜の木やカエデなどが多く植えられ、四季折々の風景が楽しめる場所としても有名です。
環境技術の面でも、御苑は先進的な取り組みを行っています。東京電力と日立造園株式会社が共同で行っているプロジェクトでは、低排出型の電動機器を使用した植栽管理が進められています。また、2019年には太陽光発電パネルが一部の管理棟に設置され、年間で約50MWhの電力を供給し、御苑内の照明や施設運営に使用されています。これに加えて、雨水を再利用するシステムが導入され、植栽の水やりやトイレの水として活用されています。
さらに、新宿御苑は東京都の「都市型緑地のモデル」として位置づけられており、2020年からは持続可能な都市開発の一環として、国際的な環境会議でも取り上げられています。このように、新宿御苑はヒートアイランド対策や都市のCO2削減におけるモデルケースとして国内外から注目され続けています。
RD40 Introduction Opens the Way to Decarbonized Construction--Green Flames, Burning in Concrete: From the Osaka City Site (May 2025)
RD40 Introduction Opens the Way to Decarbonized Construction--Green Flames, Burning in Concrete: From the Osaka City Site (May 2025)
In May 2025, RD40, an environmentally friendly fuel, was introduced for the first time in Japan at a construction site in Osaka City. This is an alternative fuel to diesel fuel that contains 40% renewable oil-derived components and can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 40%. The companies that introduced this fuel are Taisei Corporation and Itochu Enex, and it is a symbolic step toward the decarbonization of the construction industry. Through this site, the two companies are conducting a multifaceted verification of the practicality, safety, compatibility with existing heavy equipment, and supply system. Osaka City has long been active in implementing environmental city measures, and the introduction of the new system is also attracting attention as part of the city's overall sustainability efforts. The introduction of RD40 will be recorded not as a mere alternative fuel, but as an attempt to change the very structure of society.
In May 2025, RD40, an environmentally friendly fuel, was introduced for the first time in Japan at a construction site in Osaka City. This is an alternative fuel to diesel fuel that contains 40% renewable oil-derived components and can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 40%. The companies that introduced this fuel are Taisei Corporation and Itochu Enex, and it is a symbolic step toward the decarbonization of the construction industry. Through this site, the two companies are conducting a multifaceted verification of the practicality, safety, compatibility with existing heavy equipment, and supply system. Osaka City has long been active in implementing environmental city measures, and the introduction of the new system is also attracting attention as part of the city's overall sustainability efforts. The introduction of RD40 will be recorded not as a mere alternative fuel, but as an attempt to change the very structure of society.
RD40導入が切り拓く脱炭素建設——緑の炎、コンクリートの中に燃ゆ：大阪市の現場から（2025年5月）
RD40導入が切り拓く脱炭素建設——緑の炎、コンクリートの中に燃ゆ：大阪市の現場から（2025年5月）
2025年5月、大阪市の建設現場で、環境配慮型燃料「RD40」が国内で初めて導入された。これは再生可能な油脂由来の成分を40％含む軽油代替燃料で、CO2排出を最大40％削減できる。導入したのは大成建設と伊藤忠エネクスであり、建設業界の脱炭素化を目指す象徴的な一歩だ。両社はこの現場を通じて、実用性や安全性、既存重機との相性、供給体制の確保など、多角的な検証を進めている。大阪市は以前から環境都市施策に積極的であり、今回の導入も都市全体の持続可能性の一環として注目される。「緑の炎」がコンクリートの中で灯ったように、重厚な都市インフラの裏側に持続可能なエネルギーが息づき始めた。RD40の導入は単なる代替燃料ではなく、社会の構造そのものを変える試みとして記録されるだろう。
2025年5月、大阪市の建設現場で、環境配慮型燃料「RD40」が国内で初めて導入された。これは再生可能な油脂由来の成分を40％含む軽油代替燃料で、CO2排出を最大40％削減できる。導入したのは大成建設と伊藤忠エネクスであり、建設業界の脱炭素化を目指す象徴的な一歩だ。両社はこの現場を通じて、実用性や安全性、既存重機との相性、供給体制の確保など、多角的な検証を進めている。大阪市は以前から環境都市施策に積極的であり、今回の導入も都市全体の持続可能性の一環として注目される。「緑の炎」がコンクリートの中で灯ったように、重厚な都市インフラの裏側に持続可能なエネルギーが息づき始めた。RD40の導入は単なる代替燃料ではなく、社会の構造そのものを変える試みとして記録されるだろう。
RD40 Introduction Opens the Way to Decarbonized Construction--Green Flames, Burning in Concrete: From the Osaka City Site (May 2025)
RD40 Introduction Opens the Way to Decarbonized Construction--Green Flames, Burning in Concrete: From the Osaka City Site (May 2025)
In May 2025, RD40, a new environmentally friendly fuel, was introduced for the first time in Japan at a construction site in Osaka City. RD40 is an alternative fuel to diesel oil that contains 40% renewable oil-derived components and is said to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 40% compared to conventional diesel oil. The companies that introduced RD40 are Taisei Corporation and Itochu Enex, and the project is attracting attention as a pioneering attempt to realize decarbonization in the construction industry.
This project is more than just the introduction of a new fuel. Through hands-on operation in the metropolis of Osaka City, the two companies have verified the potential for social implementation of environmental impact reduction technology at construction sites, with future plans to expand the project to sites in the Kanto region and other parts of Japan. In addition, a comprehensive evaluation is underway, including practical issues such as safety training for site workers, compatibility with existing heavy equipment, and the state of supply infrastructure.
Osaka City has long been a pioneer in urban environmental measures, such as the Smart City concept and support for the introduction of EVs, but this case can be seen as a turning point in the city's decarbonization strategy in the construction sector. As skyscrapers and urban redevelopment projects are underway, the shift to environmentally friendly fuels even for the construction sites that support the "backside" of these projects demonstrates the seriousness of the city's overall commitment to sustainability.
With next-generation fuels such as RD40 entering the practical stage, effective environmental measures that go beyond mere image strategies are beginning to take effect. The Osaka City experiment was a moment when a ray of "green flame" was lit in the midst of a forest of concrete and steel frames.
In May 2025, RD40, a new environmentally friendly fuel, was introduced for the first time in Japan at a construction site in Osaka City. RD40 is an alternative fuel to diesel oil that contains 40% renewable oil-derived components and is said to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 40% compared to conventional diesel oil. The companies that introduced RD40 are Taisei Corporation and Itochu Enex, and the project is attracting attention as a pioneering attempt to realize decarbonization in the construction industry.
This project is more than just the introduction of a new fuel. Through hands-on operation in the metropolis of Osaka City, the two companies have verified the potential for social implementation of environmental impact reduction technology at construction sites, with future plans to expand the project to sites in the Kanto region and other parts of Japan. In addition, a comprehensive evaluation is underway, including practical issues such as safety training for site workers, compatibility with existing heavy equipment, and the state of supply infrastructure.
Osaka City has long been a pioneer in urban environmental measures, such as the Smart City concept and support for the introduction of EVs, but this case can be seen as a turning point in the city's decarbonization strategy in the construction sector. As skyscrapers and urban redevelopment projects are underway, the shift to environmentally friendly fuels even for the construction sites that support the "backside" of these projects demonstrates the seriousness of the city's overall commitment to sustainability.
With next-generation fuels such as RD40 entering the practical stage, effective environmental measures that go beyond mere image strategies are beginning to take effect. The Osaka City experiment was a moment when a ray of "green flame" was lit in the midst of a forest of concrete and steel frames.
RD40導入が切り拓く脱炭素建設——緑の炎、コンクリートの中に燃ゆ：大阪市の現場から（2025年5月）
RD40導入が切り拓く脱炭素建設——緑の炎、コンクリートの中に燃ゆ：大阪市の現場から（2025年5月）
2025年5月、大阪市内の建設現場で、環境配慮型の新燃料「RD40」が国内で初めて導入された。RD40とは、再生可能な油脂由来の成分を40％含む軽油代替燃料であり、従来の軽油と比べて最大で40％のCO2排出削減効果があるとされる。導入を実施したのは、大成建設と伊藤忠エネクスの両社で、建設業界における脱炭素化の実現に向けた先導的な試みとして注目されている。
このプロジェクトは、単なる新燃料の導入にとどまらない。両社は、大阪市という大都市における実地運用を通じて、建設現場での環境負荷軽減技術の社会実装の可能性を検証し、今後、関東圏をはじめとする全国の現場への展開も視野に入れている。加えて、現場作業員への安全教育や、既存の重機との適合性、供給インフラの整備状況など、実務上の課題も含めて包括的な評価が進められている。
大阪市はこれまでも、スマートシティ構想やEV導入支援など、都市型の環境対策で先陣を切ってきた経緯があるが、今回の事例は、建設分野における脱炭素戦略の転換点とも言える。高層ビルや都市再開発が進行する中で、その「裏側」を支える建設現場の燃料までをも環境配慮型に転換するという姿勢は、都市全体の持続可能性への本気度を示している。
「RD40」のような次世代燃料が実用段階に入ることで、単なるイメージ戦略にとどまらない、実効的な環境対策が動き始めている。大阪市のこの実験は、コンクリートと鉄骨の森の中に、ひとすじの"緑の炎"が灯った瞬間だった。
2025年5月、大阪市内の建設現場で、環境配慮型の新燃料「RD40」が国内で初めて導入された。RD40とは、再生可能な油脂由来の成分を40％含む軽油代替燃料であり、従来の軽油と比べて最大で40％のCO2排出削減効果があるとされる。導入を実施したのは、大成建設と伊藤忠エネクスの両社で、建設業界における脱炭素化の実現に向けた先導的な試みとして注目されている。
このプロジェクトは、単なる新燃料の導入にとどまらない。両社は、大阪市という大都市における実地運用を通じて、建設現場での環境負荷軽減技術の社会実装の可能性を検証し、今後、関東圏をはじめとする全国の現場への展開も視野に入れている。加えて、現場作業員への安全教育や、既存の重機との適合性、供給インフラの整備状況など、実務上の課題も含めて包括的な評価が進められている。
大阪市はこれまでも、スマートシティ構想やEV導入支援など、都市型の環境対策で先陣を切ってきた経緯があるが、今回の事例は、建設分野における脱炭素戦略の転換点とも言える。高層ビルや都市再開発が進行する中で、その「裏側」を支える建設現場の燃料までをも環境配慮型に転換するという姿勢は、都市全体の持続可能性への本気度を示している。
「RD40」のような次世代燃料が実用段階に入ることで、単なるイメージ戦略にとどまらない、実効的な環境対策が動き始めている。大阪市のこの実験は、コンクリートと鉄骨の森の中に、ひとすじの"緑の炎"が灯った瞬間だった。
Why was the Fukushima nuclear accident (loss of all power and core meltdown) not prevented? -March 2011
Why was the Fukushima nuclear accident (loss of all power and core meltdown) not prevented? -March 2011
The Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident was triggered by the Tohoku earthquake and subsequent tsunami that occurred on March 11, 2011. After the earthquake, the reactors automatically shut down and the fission reaction stopped, but the core remained hot and required continuous cooling. However, the tsunami that struck shortly thereafter inundated the emergency power supply facilities and the power plant was in a serious condition of total power loss (station blackout). As a result, the cooling function was completely lost and the temperature inside the reactor rose dramatically. The fuel rods melted, resulting in a core meltdown.
In addition, the metallic zirconium used as fuel coating material underwent a chemical reaction with water at high temperatures, generating hydrogen, which filled the reactor buildings and caused a series of hydrogen explosions in Units 1, 3, and 4. This caused a large amount of radioactive materials to be released into the environment, resulting in serious damage to the surrounding areas.
The accident was caused by technological underestimation of natural disasters and institutional deficiencies. The plant's design neglected past tsunamis and assumed a maximum tsunami height of only 5.7 meters, which led to increased damage. In addition, the power plant itself was an outdated design from the 1970s, and its multiple layers of protection (layered protection) against tsunamis and earthquakes were inadequate. Furthermore, there was confusion in the initial response to the accident, which led to delays in the release of information and evacuation, and other factors that contributed to the worsening of the damage.
The nuclear regulatory system at the time was also problematic. The Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency (NISA), which was in charge of safety regulations, was under the control of the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI), the parent body that promoted nuclear power, and as a result, its independence as a regulatory agency was not ensured and risks were not strictly monitored. It is believed that these deficiencies in the regulatory system contributed to the magnitude of the accident, and it has been strongly criticized as a "man-made disaster.
This accident was the most serious nuclear disaster in Japan's history, caused by a combination of overconfidence in the threat of natural disasters and human institutional vulnerability. Since then, it has triggered a general review of nuclear power safety, multiple protection, crisis management, and evacuation planning. It is a symbolic event that shows how important it is to be humble toward nature and rigorous in institutional design.
The Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident was triggered by the Tohoku earthquake and subsequent tsunami that occurred on March 11, 2011. After the earthquake, the reactors automatically shut down and the fission reaction stopped, but the core remained hot and required continuous cooling. However, the tsunami that struck shortly thereafter inundated the emergency power supply facilities and the power plant was in a serious condition of total power loss (station blackout). As a result, the cooling function was completely lost and the temperature inside the reactor rose dramatically. The fuel rods melted, resulting in a core meltdown.
In addition, the metallic zirconium used as fuel coating material underwent a chemical reaction with water at high temperatures, generating hydrogen, which filled the reactor buildings and caused a series of hydrogen explosions in Units 1, 3, and 4. This caused a large amount of radioactive materials to be released into the environment, resulting in serious damage to the surrounding areas.
The accident was caused by technological underestimation of natural disasters and institutional deficiencies. The plant's design neglected past tsunamis and assumed a maximum tsunami height of only 5.7 meters, which led to increased damage. In addition, the power plant itself was an outdated design from the 1970s, and its multiple layers of protection (layered protection) against tsunamis and earthquakes were inadequate. Furthermore, there was confusion in the initial response to the accident, which led to delays in the release of information and evacuation, and other factors that contributed to the worsening of the damage.
The nuclear regulatory system at the time was also problematic. The Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency (NISA), which was in charge of safety regulations, was under the control of the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI), the parent body that promoted nuclear power, and as a result, its independence as a regulatory agency was not ensured and risks were not strictly monitored. It is believed that these deficiencies in the regulatory system contributed to the magnitude of the accident, and it has been strongly criticized as a "man-made disaster.
This accident was the most serious nuclear disaster in Japan's history, caused by a combination of overconfidence in the threat of natural disasters and human institutional vulnerability. Since then, it has triggered a general review of nuclear power safety, multiple protection, crisis management, and evacuation planning. It is a symbolic event that shows how important it is to be humble toward nature and rigorous in institutional design.
なぜ福島の原発事故（全電源喪失・炉心溶融）は防げなかったのか？—2011年3月
なぜ福島の原発事故（全電源喪失・炉心溶融）は防げなかったのか？—2011年3月
福島第一原子力発電所事故は、2011年3月11日に発生した東北地方太平洋沖地震と、それに続く大津波によって引き起こされました。地震発生後、原子炉は自動的に停止し、核分裂反応は停止しましたが、炉心は依然として高温を保っており、継続的な冷却が必要でした。しかし、その直後に襲った津波により非常用電源設備が浸水し、発電所は全電源喪失（ステーションブラックアウト）という深刻な状態に陥りました。この結果、冷却機能が完全に失われ、炉内の温度は急激に上昇。燃料棒は溶解し、炉心溶融（メルトダウン）が発生しました。
加えて、燃料被覆材である金属ジルコニウムが高温下で水と化学反応を起こして水素を発生させ、この水素が原子炉建屋内に充満して、1号機、3号機、4号機において連続的な水素爆発を引き起こしました。これにより大量の放射性物質が外部へと放出され、周辺地域に深刻な被害をもたらしました。
この事故の背景には、自然災害に対する技術的過小評価と制度的欠陥がありました。設計時に過去の津波の実例を軽視し、最大で5.7メートル程度しか想定していなかったことが被害を拡大させました。また、発電所自体が1970年代の旧式設計であり、津波や地震に対する多重防護（層状防護）が不十分でした。さらに、事故対応の初動にも混乱が見られ、情報公開の遅れや避難の遅延など、被害の深刻化を招く要因となりました。
当時の原子力規制体制にも問題がありました。安全規制を担当する原子力安全・保安院が、原子力の推進母体である経済産業省の配下にあったことで、規制機関としての独立性が確保されておらず、リスクに対する厳格な監視がなされていなかったのです。こうした体制の欠陥が事故の規模を大きくしたとされ、「人災」との批判も強く残されました。
この事故は、自然災害の脅威に対する過信と、人間の制度的脆弱さが複合して起きた、日本の歴史上最も深刻な原子力災害です。以後、原子力発電の安全性、多重防護、危機管理、避難計画などの全般的な見直しが進められるきっかけとなりました。自然に対する謙虚さと、制度設計の厳密さがいかに重要であるかを示す象徴的な出来事です。
福島第一原子力発電所事故は、2011年3月11日に発生した東北地方太平洋沖地震と、それに続く大津波によって引き起こされました。地震発生後、原子炉は自動的に停止し、核分裂反応は停止しましたが、炉心は依然として高温を保っており、継続的な冷却が必要でした。しかし、その直後に襲った津波により非常用電源設備が浸水し、発電所は全電源喪失（ステーションブラックアウト）という深刻な状態に陥りました。この結果、冷却機能が完全に失われ、炉内の温度は急激に上昇。燃料棒は溶解し、炉心溶融（メルトダウン）が発生しました。
加えて、燃料被覆材である金属ジルコニウムが高温下で水と化学反応を起こして水素を発生させ、この水素が原子炉建屋内に充満して、1号機、3号機、4号機において連続的な水素爆発を引き起こしました。これにより大量の放射性物質が外部へと放出され、周辺地域に深刻な被害をもたらしました。
この事故の背景には、自然災害に対する技術的過小評価と制度的欠陥がありました。設計時に過去の津波の実例を軽視し、最大で5.7メートル程度しか想定していなかったことが被害を拡大させました。また、発電所自体が1970年代の旧式設計であり、津波や地震に対する多重防護（層状防護）が不十分でした。さらに、事故対応の初動にも混乱が見られ、情報公開の遅れや避難の遅延など、被害の深刻化を招く要因となりました。
当時の原子力規制体制にも問題がありました。安全規制を担当する原子力安全・保安院が、原子力の推進母体である経済産業省の配下にあったことで、規制機関としての独立性が確保されておらず、リスクに対する厳格な監視がなされていなかったのです。こうした体制の欠陥が事故の規模を大きくしたとされ、「人災」との批判も強く残されました。
この事故は、自然災害の脅威に対する過信と、人間の制度的脆弱さが複合して起きた、日本の歴史上最も深刻な原子力災害です。以後、原子力発電の安全性、多重防護、危機管理、避難計画などの全般的な見直しが進められるきっかけとなりました。自然に対する謙虚さと、制度設計の厳密さがいかに重要であるかを示す象徴的な出来事です。
Why was the Fukushima nuclear accident (loss of all power and core meltdown) not prevented? -March 2011
Why was the Fukushima nuclear accident (loss of all power and core meltdown) not prevented? -March 2011
On March 11, 2011, the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami hit the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. The reactors automatically shut down, but the emergency power supply to cool the residual heat in the reactor core was lost due to the tsunami, resulting in a total loss of power (station blackout). As a result, the cooling function was lost and a core meltdown occurred. Hydrogen generated by the high-temperature reaction of the fuel rods accumulated in the buildings, causing multiple explosions and leaking radioactive material outside. In the background were compounded institutional deficiencies, including underestimation of the tsunami, outdated 1970s design, delayed information disclosure, and lack of independence of the regulatory agencies. The fact that the regulatory organization was placed under the administrative body that promoted nuclear power plants has been pointed out as a structural problem that prevented strict safety measures from being taken. Human overconfiden
ce and weak institutions combined with natural disasters to cause an unprecedented nuclear disaster.
On March 11, 2011, the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami hit the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. The reactors automatically shut down, but the emergency power supply to cool the residual heat in the reactor core was lost due to the tsunami, resulting in a total loss of power (station blackout). As a result, the cooling function was lost and a core meltdown occurred. Hydrogen generated by the high-temperature reaction of the fuel rods accumulated in the buildings, causing multiple explosions and leaking radioactive material outside. In the background were compounded institutional deficiencies, including underestimation of the tsunami, outdated 1970s design, delayed information disclosure, and lack of independence of the regulatory agencies. The fact that the regulatory organization was placed under the administrative body that promoted nuclear power plants has been pointed out as a structural problem that prevented strict safety measures from being taken. Human overconfiden
ce and weak institutions combined with natural disasters to cause an unprecedented nuclear disaster.
なぜ福島の原発事故（全電源喪失・炉心溶融）は防げなかったのか？—2011年3月
なぜ福島の原発事故（全電源喪失・炉心溶融）は防げなかったのか？—2011年3月
2011年3月11日、東北地方太平洋沖地震と大津波が福島第一原子力発電所を襲った。原子炉は自動停止したが、炉心の余熱を冷やすための非常用電源が津波によって失われ、全電源喪失（ステーションブラックアウト）状態に陥った。これにより冷却機能が失われ、炉心溶融（メルトダウン）が発生。燃料棒の高温反応で発生した水素が建屋内に溜まり、複数の爆発を引き起こして放射性物質が外部に漏出した。背景には、津波の過小評価や1970年代の旧式設計、情報公開の遅れ、規制機関の独立性の欠如など、複合的な制度的欠陥があった。原発を推進する行政機関の下に規制組織が置かれていたことで、厳格な安全対策が取られなかったという構造的問題が指摘されている。人間の過信と制度の脆弱さが自然災害と結びつき、未曾有の�
��子力災害を引き起こしたのである。
2011年3月11日、東北地方太平洋沖地震と大津波が福島第一原子力発電所を襲った。原子炉は自動停止したが、炉心の余熱を冷やすための非常用電源が津波によって失われ、全電源喪失（ステーションブラックアウト）状態に陥った。これにより冷却機能が失われ、炉心溶融（メルトダウン）が発生。燃料棒の高温反応で発生した水素が建屋内に溜まり、複数の爆発を引き起こして放射性物質が外部に漏出した。背景には、津波の過小評価や1970年代の旧式設計、情報公開の遅れ、規制機関の独立性の欠如など、複合的な制度的欠陥があった。原発を推進する行政機関の下に規制組織が置かれていたことで、厳格な安全対策が取られなかったという構造的問題が指摘されている。人間の過信と制度の脆弱さが自然災害と結びつき、未曾有の�
��子力災害を引き起こしたのである。
1. January 2001 - Impact of Deregulation of Waste Disposal
1. January 2001 - Impact of Deregulation of Waste Disposal
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government's Waste Management Council has announced a proposal to relax licensing procedures for the development of recycling facilities and collection and transportation. However, as deregulation progresses, it will become more difficult to monitor proper disposal, and there is concern that illegal dumping will increase. In particular, lax management of construction waste will likely lead to an increase in illegal landfilling and dumping. The challenge will be to strike a balance between environmental protection and economic development.
2. March 2001 - Illegal Logging of Forests and Imported Wood Issues
As Japan's timber imports increase, illegally logged timber is entering the market. Deforestation is particularly serious in Indonesia and Brazil, and there is growing criticism that Japan is complicit in environmental crimes by continuing to import illegal timber. In Japan, the introduction of a legal timber certification system is being discussed, and action is being sought to eradicate illegal logging.
3. June 2001 - Increase in Illegal Dumping and Tighter Monitoring
According to a survey by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the number of pollution complaints in FY2000 increased 10.3% from the previous year to 8,3881, with illegal dumping accounting for 35.6% of the total reports. In particular, illegal dumping of industrial waste is becoming more serious, and local governments are strengthening their monitoring systems. Discussions are underway to strengthen penalties, but the difficulty of detection remains an issue.
4. August 2001 - Challenges in PCB Waste Disposal
The PCB waste treatment facility to be established in Kitakyushu City is attracting attention as the nation's first wide-area treatment system. However, the whereabouts of PCBs illegally disposed of in the past have not been ascertained, and in many cases PCBs are left untreated. Environmental groups are calling for an investigation of past illegal disposal and the need for strict management.
5. October 2001 - Environmental Violations in the Construction Industry
Despite the mandatory recycling of construction waste, some demolition companies have been illegally dumping materials. In particular, improper disposal of industrial waste has become a problem, and local governments have stepped up monitoring. The government has indicated that it will consider supporting construction workers in changing jobs to forest conservation and management in order to reduce illegal activities.
6. November 2001 - CO2 Emission Regulations and Illegal Activities
Companies were found to be falsely reporting emissions and falsifying measurement data in order to evade emission regulations. Fraud to evade regulations is particularly common in the automotive and power generation industries, and the government has announced a policy to strengthen monitoring of companies. Violating companies will be subject to severe penalties.
7. December 2001 - Registration of Demolition Businesses Becomes Mandatory
Registration of demolition companies became mandatory under the Construction Materials Recycling Law. Audits of registered operators are strengthened as a measure to prevent illegal disposal. This will require demolition companies to comply with environmental regulations, but the shortage of personnel to conduct audits has become an issue.
8. February 2002 - Illegal Deforestation and Green GDP
As deforestation regulations are being enforced internationally, illegal logging timber is flowing into the Japanese lumber market. In China and Brazil, deforestation is becoming more serious, and the introduction of "Green GDP" has been proposed to take this into account. The Japanese government has also indicated a policy of tightening regulations on illegal timber imports.
9. April 2002 - Emissions Trading and Environmental Crime
Trading in greenhouse gas emission credits begins, and some companies are found to be padding their emission quotas and illegally trading. In particular, false reports of carbon dioxide emissions have been found, forcing the government to establish a strict monitoring system. Violating companies are expected to have their emission quotas reduced or face penalties.
10. June 2002 - Fraudulent Acquisition of Environmental ISO Certification
An increasing number of companies seeking ISO 14001 environmental certification have submitted false data to receive certification, even though they do not actually meet the environmental standard. The audit system of certification bodies is inadequate, and the credibility of the certification system is shaken. The government plans to make the certification process more transparent and rigorous.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government's Waste Management Council has announced a proposal to relax licensing procedures for the development of recycling facilities and collection and transportation. However, as deregulation progresses, it will become more difficult to monitor proper disposal, and there is concern that illegal dumping will increase. In particular, lax management of construction waste will likely lead to an increase in illegal landfilling and dumping. The challenge will be to strike a balance between environmental protection and economic development.
2. March 2001 - Illegal Logging of Forests and Imported Wood Issues
As Japan's timber imports increase, illegally logged timber is entering the market. Deforestation is particularly serious in Indonesia and Brazil, and there is growing criticism that Japan is complicit in environmental crimes by continuing to import illegal timber. In Japan, the introduction of a legal timber certification system is being discussed, and action is being sought to eradicate illegal logging.
3. June 2001 - Increase in Illegal Dumping and Tighter Monitoring
According to a survey by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the number of pollution complaints in FY2000 increased 10.3% from the previous year to 8,3881, with illegal dumping accounting for 35.6% of the total reports. In particular, illegal dumping of industrial waste is becoming more serious, and local governments are strengthening their monitoring systems. Discussions are underway to strengthen penalties, but the difficulty of detection remains an issue.
4. August 2001 - Challenges in PCB Waste Disposal
The PCB waste treatment facility to be established in Kitakyushu City is attracting attention as the nation's first wide-area treatment system. However, the whereabouts of PCBs illegally disposed of in the past have not been ascertained, and in many cases PCBs are left untreated. Environmental groups are calling for an investigation of past illegal disposal and the need for strict management.
5. October 2001 - Environmental Violations in the Construction Industry
Despite the mandatory recycling of construction waste, some demolition companies have been illegally dumping materials. In particular, improper disposal of industrial waste has become a problem, and local governments have stepped up monitoring. The government has indicated that it will consider supporting construction workers in changing jobs to forest conservation and management in order to reduce illegal activities.
6. November 2001 - CO2 Emission Regulations and Illegal Activities
Companies were found to be falsely reporting emissions and falsifying measurement data in order to evade emission regulations. Fraud to evade regulations is particularly common in the automotive and power generation industries, and the government has announced a policy to strengthen monitoring of companies. Violating companies will be subject to severe penalties.
7. December 2001 - Registration of Demolition Businesses Becomes Mandatory
Registration of demolition companies became mandatory under the Construction Materials Recycling Law. Audits of registered operators are strengthened as a measure to prevent illegal disposal. This will require demolition companies to comply with environmental regulations, but the shortage of personnel to conduct audits has become an issue.
8. February 2002 - Illegal Deforestation and Green GDP
As deforestation regulations are being enforced internationally, illegal logging timber is flowing into the Japanese lumber market. In China and Brazil, deforestation is becoming more serious, and the introduction of "Green GDP" has been proposed to take this into account. The Japanese government has also indicated a policy of tightening regulations on illegal timber imports.
9. April 2002 - Emissions Trading and Environmental Crime
Trading in greenhouse gas emission credits begins, and some companies are found to be padding their emission quotas and illegally trading. In particular, false reports of carbon dioxide emissions have been found, forcing the government to establish a strict monitoring system. Violating companies are expected to have their emission quotas reduced or face penalties.
10. June 2002 - Fraudulent Acquisition of Environmental ISO Certification
An increasing number of companies seeking ISO 14001 environmental certification have submitted false data to receive certification, even though they do not actually meet the environmental standard. The audit system of certification bodies is inadequate, and the credibility of the certification system is shaken. The government plans to make the certification process more transparent and rigorous.
1. 2001年1月 - 廃棄物処理の規制緩和がもたらす影響
1. 2001年1月 - 廃棄物処理の規制緩和がもたらす影響
東京都の廃棄物審議会は、リサイクル施設の整備や収集運搬の許可手続きを緩和する提案を発表した。しかし、規制緩和が進むと適正処理の監視が難しくなり、不法投棄の増加が懸念される。特に、建設廃棄物の管理が甘くなれば違法な埋め立てや投棄が増える可能性が高い。環境保護と経済発展のバランスが課題となる。
2. 2001年3月 - 森林違法伐採と輸入木材の問題
日本の木材輸入量の増加に伴い、違法伐採された木材が市場に流入している。特に、インドネシアやブラジルでは森林破壊が深刻で、日本が違法木材の輸入を続けることで環境犯罪に加担しているとの批判が強まっている。国内では、合法木材認証制度の導入が議論され、違法伐採の撲滅に向けた対応が求められている。
3. 2001年6月 - 不法投棄の増加と監視強化
総務省の調査によると、2000年度の公害苦情は前年より10.3％増の83881件に達し、不法投棄の通報が35.6％を占めた。特に、産業廃棄物の違法投棄が深刻化しており、自治体は監視体制を強化。罰則強化の議論も進んでいるが、摘発の困難さが課題となっている。
4. 2001年8月 - PCB廃棄物処理の課題
北九州市に設置されるPCB廃棄物処理施設は、全国初の広域処理システムとして注目されている。しかし、過去に違法に廃棄されたPCBの行方が把握できておらず、未処理のまま放置されているケースが多い。環境団体は、過去の違法廃棄の調査と厳格な管理の必要性を訴えている。
5. 2001年10月 - 建設業界の環境違反
建設廃材のリサイクルが義務化されたにもかかわらず、一部の解体業者が違法投棄を行っている。特に、産業廃棄物の不適切処理が問題視され、自治体は監視を強化。政府は建設業従事者の森林保全管理への転職支援を検討し、違法行為の削減を図る方針を示した。
6. 2001年11月 - CO2排出規制と違法行為
企業が排出規制を逃れるために、排出量の虚偽報告や測定データの改ざんを行っていることが判明。特に、自動車産業や発電業界では規制回避のための不正が多く、政府は企業の監視を強化する方針を示した。違反企業には厳しい罰則が科される予定である。
7. 2001年12月 - 解体事業者の登録義務化
建設資材リサイクル法に基づき、解体事業者の登録が義務化された。違法廃棄を防ぐための措置として、登録事業者の監査が強化される。これにより、解体業者が環境規制を遵守することが求められるが、監査の人員不足が課題となっている。
8. 2002年2月 - 違法森林伐採とグリーンGDP
森林伐採規制が国際的に進む中、日本の木材市場に違法伐採木材が流入している。中国やブラジルでは森林破壊が深刻化し、これを考慮した「グリーンGDP」の導入が提唱されている。日本政府も違法木材の輸入規制を強化する方針を示している。
9. 2002年4月 - 排出権取引と環境犯罪
温暖化ガス排出権取引が始まり、一部企業が排出枠の水増しや違法売買を行っていることが発覚。特に、二酸化炭素排出量の報告に虚偽が見られ、政府は厳しい監視体制を整える必要に迫られている。違反企業には排出枠の削減や罰則が科される見通し。
10. 2002年6月 - 環境ISO認証の不正取得
環境ISO14001の認証取得を目的とした企業が、実際には環境基準を満たしていないにもかかわらず、虚偽のデータを提出し認証を受けている事例が増加。認証機関の監査体制が不十分であり、認証制度の信頼性が揺らいでいる。政府は認証プロセスの透明化と厳格化を進める方針。
東京都の廃棄物審議会は、リサイクル施設の整備や収集運搬の許可手続きを緩和する提案を発表した。しかし、規制緩和が進むと適正処理の監視が難しくなり、不法投棄の増加が懸念される。特に、建設廃棄物の管理が甘くなれば違法な埋め立てや投棄が増える可能性が高い。環境保護と経済発展のバランスが課題となる。
2. 2001年3月 - 森林違法伐採と輸入木材の問題
日本の木材輸入量の増加に伴い、違法伐採された木材が市場に流入している。特に、インドネシアやブラジルでは森林破壊が深刻で、日本が違法木材の輸入を続けることで環境犯罪に加担しているとの批判が強まっている。国内では、合法木材認証制度の導入が議論され、違法伐採の撲滅に向けた対応が求められている。
3. 2001年6月 - 不法投棄の増加と監視強化
総務省の調査によると、2000年度の公害苦情は前年より10.3％増の83881件に達し、不法投棄の通報が35.6％を占めた。特に、産業廃棄物の違法投棄が深刻化しており、自治体は監視体制を強化。罰則強化の議論も進んでいるが、摘発の困難さが課題となっている。
4. 2001年8月 - PCB廃棄物処理の課題
北九州市に設置されるPCB廃棄物処理施設は、全国初の広域処理システムとして注目されている。しかし、過去に違法に廃棄されたPCBの行方が把握できておらず、未処理のまま放置されているケースが多い。環境団体は、過去の違法廃棄の調査と厳格な管理の必要性を訴えている。
5. 2001年10月 - 建設業界の環境違反
建設廃材のリサイクルが義務化されたにもかかわらず、一部の解体業者が違法投棄を行っている。特に、産業廃棄物の不適切処理が問題視され、自治体は監視を強化。政府は建設業従事者の森林保全管理への転職支援を検討し、違法行為の削減を図る方針を示した。
6. 2001年11月 - CO2排出規制と違法行為
企業が排出規制を逃れるために、排出量の虚偽報告や測定データの改ざんを行っていることが判明。特に、自動車産業や発電業界では規制回避のための不正が多く、政府は企業の監視を強化する方針を示した。違反企業には厳しい罰則が科される予定である。
7. 2001年12月 - 解体事業者の登録義務化
建設資材リサイクル法に基づき、解体事業者の登録が義務化された。違法廃棄を防ぐための措置として、登録事業者の監査が強化される。これにより、解体業者が環境規制を遵守することが求められるが、監査の人員不足が課題となっている。
8. 2002年2月 - 違法森林伐採とグリーンGDP
森林伐採規制が国際的に進む中、日本の木材市場に違法伐採木材が流入している。中国やブラジルでは森林破壊が深刻化し、これを考慮した「グリーンGDP」の導入が提唱されている。日本政府も違法木材の輸入規制を強化する方針を示している。
9. 2002年4月 - 排出権取引と環境犯罪
温暖化ガス排出権取引が始まり、一部企業が排出枠の水増しや違法売買を行っていることが発覚。特に、二酸化炭素排出量の報告に虚偽が見られ、政府は厳しい監視体制を整える必要に迫られている。違反企業には排出枠の削減や罰則が科される見通し。
10. 2002年6月 - 環境ISO認証の不正取得
環境ISO14001の認証取得を目的とした企業が、実際には環境基準を満たしていないにもかかわらず、虚偽のデータを提出し認証を受けている事例が増加。認証機関の監査体制が不十分であり、認証制度の信頼性が揺らいでいる。政府は認証プロセスの透明化と厳格化を進める方針。
Friday, May 30, 2025
Why the Number of Thunderbirds Has Declined--Distance from Nature Wavering in the Name of Conservation - May 2025
Why the Number of Thunderbirds Has Declined--Distance from Nature Wavering in the Name of Conservation - May 2025
Japanese grouse used to be widely distributed in the alpine zone of central Honshu, but in recent years their numbers have plummeted. The biggest factor is climate change. As a survivor of the Ice Age, this bird can only live in cool environments. However, global warming has caused this environment to recede, and natural enemies such as foxes and crows, which were not originally present, have moved up in altitude and invaded the area. This has significantly reduced the survival rate of eggs and chicks.
Furthermore, the impact of tourism development is also serious. The development of mountain trails and ski resorts has brought more people into the mountains, disturbing their habitat. Grouse are sensitive to the proximity of people, and this interferes with their nesting and foraging behavior. The decline in alpine vegetation has also had a negative impact on the food supply.
Under these circumstances, the Ministry of the Environment is attempting to restore the population through artificial insemination, but in May 2025, an accident occurred in which one bird died during the insemination process. The nature of artificial breeding and its ethics are now being questioned. Is "protecting" them with human hands really coexisting with nature? The decline of thunderbirds is an opportunity to rethink the distance between nature and humans.
Japanese grouse used to be widely distributed in the alpine zone of central Honshu, but in recent years their numbers have plummeted. The biggest factor is climate change. As a survivor of the Ice Age, this bird can only live in cool environments. However, global warming has caused this environment to recede, and natural enemies such as foxes and crows, which were not originally present, have moved up in altitude and invaded the area. This has significantly reduced the survival rate of eggs and chicks.
Furthermore, the impact of tourism development is also serious. The development of mountain trails and ski resorts has brought more people into the mountains, disturbing their habitat. Grouse are sensitive to the proximity of people, and this interferes with their nesting and foraging behavior. The decline in alpine vegetation has also had a negative impact on the food supply.
Under these circumstances, the Ministry of the Environment is attempting to restore the population through artificial insemination, but in May 2025, an accident occurred in which one bird died during the insemination process. The nature of artificial breeding and its ethics are now being questioned. Is "protecting" them with human hands really coexisting with nature? The decline of thunderbirds is an opportunity to rethink the distance between nature and humans.
雷鳥が減ったのはなぜか――保護の名のもとに揺れる自然との距離感 - 2025年5月
雷鳥が減ったのはなぜか――保護の名のもとに揺れる自然との距離感 - 2025年5月
ニホンライチョウはかつて本州中部の高山帯に広く分布していたが、近年その数は激減している。最大の要因は気候変動である。氷河期の生き残りであるこの鳥は、冷涼な環境でしか生きられない。だが温暖化によりその環境は後退し、さらに本来いなかったキツネやカラスといった天敵が標高を上げて侵入している。これにより卵やヒナの生存率が著しく低下した。
さらに観光開発の影響も深刻である。登山道の整備やスキー場の開発で多くの人が山に入るようになり、生息地が撹乱されている。ライチョウは人の接近に敏感で、営巣や採餌行動に支障をきたす。高山植物の減少も食物供給に悪影響を及ぼしている。
こうした状況の中で、環境省は人工授精による個体数の回復を試みているが、2025年5月には採精作業中に1羽が死亡する事故が発生した。人工的な繁殖のあり方やその倫理性が今問われている。人間の手で「守る」ことは本当に自然との共生なのだろうか。雷鳥の減少は、自然と人間の距離を見直す契機である。
ニホンライチョウはかつて本州中部の高山帯に広く分布していたが、近年その数は激減している。最大の要因は気候変動である。氷河期の生き残りであるこの鳥は、冷涼な環境でしか生きられない。だが温暖化によりその環境は後退し、さらに本来いなかったキツネやカラスといった天敵が標高を上げて侵入している。これにより卵やヒナの生存率が著しく低下した。
さらに観光開発の影響も深刻である。登山道の整備やスキー場の開発で多くの人が山に入るようになり、生息地が撹乱されている。ライチョウは人の接近に敏感で、営巣や採餌行動に支障をきたす。高山植物の減少も食物供給に悪影響を及ぼしている。
こうした状況の中で、環境省は人工授精による個体数の回復を試みているが、2025年5月には採精作業中に1羽が死亡する事故が発生した。人工的な繁殖のあり方やその倫理性が今問われている。人間の手で「守る」ことは本当に自然との共生なのだろうか。雷鳥の減少は、自然と人間の距離を見直す契機である。
Why the Number of Thunderbirds Has Decreased--Distance from Nature Wavering in the Name of Conservation - May 2025
Why the Number of Thunderbirds Has Decreased--Distance from Nature Wavering in the Name of Conservation - May 2025
The Japanese grouse lives in the alpine region of Norikura-dake. Norikura. It was once widely seen in the high mountains of central Honshu, but is now an endangered species and subject to protection. In May 2025, the Ministry of the Environment attempted artificial insemination by collecting sperm from five wild individuals, but one bird lost its life in the process. The question behind this incident, however, is not simply failure, but the essential question of why the thunderbird's numbers have declined so much in the first place.
The primary cause is the collapse of their habitat due to climate change. Grouse are survivors of the Ice Age and can only live in cold alpine zones. Global warming has changed the vegetation in the alpine zone, resulting in the loss of a cooler environment and the invasion of natural enemies such as foxes and crows, which were originally found only in the lower regions. As a result, their eggs and chicks were preyed upon, and their survival rate declined significantly.
In addition, anthropogenic disturbance caused by tourism development cannot be ignored. The development of mountain trails, the expansion of ski resorts, and the convenience of mountain transportation have brought hundreds of thousands of people a year into this once tranquil habitat. The proximity of humans is stressful for grouse, negatively affecting their breeding and foraging behavior. In addition, the theft and trampling of alpine plants, which provide food for the grouse, has further reduced their food resources.
The Ministry of the Environment is promoting a three-pronged "protection and propagation project" to curb these effects: capture, propagation, and reintroduction. However, the philosophical question remains: Is it really right to manage nature by human hands? Artificial insemination is another method that has a low reproductive success rate and is far removed from nature's natural behavior patterns.
The decline of the thunderbird is not merely a "wildlife extinction crisis," but a stark warning about how we relate to nature. As a result of human activities that have warmed the mountains, opened them up, and brought them closer together, the life that was supposed to live there is disappearing. How should we accept responsibility for this? The restoration of habitat is a means to an end, and the question is how to build the idea of "living together" beyond that.
The Japanese grouse lives in the alpine region of Norikura-dake. Norikura. It was once widely seen in the high mountains of central Honshu, but is now an endangered species and subject to protection. In May 2025, the Ministry of the Environment attempted artificial insemination by collecting sperm from five wild individuals, but one bird lost its life in the process. The question behind this incident, however, is not simply failure, but the essential question of why the thunderbird's numbers have declined so much in the first place.
The primary cause is the collapse of their habitat due to climate change. Grouse are survivors of the Ice Age and can only live in cold alpine zones. Global warming has changed the vegetation in the alpine zone, resulting in the loss of a cooler environment and the invasion of natural enemies such as foxes and crows, which were originally found only in the lower regions. As a result, their eggs and chicks were preyed upon, and their survival rate declined significantly.
In addition, anthropogenic disturbance caused by tourism development cannot be ignored. The development of mountain trails, the expansion of ski resorts, and the convenience of mountain transportation have brought hundreds of thousands of people a year into this once tranquil habitat. The proximity of humans is stressful for grouse, negatively affecting their breeding and foraging behavior. In addition, the theft and trampling of alpine plants, which provide food for the grouse, has further reduced their food resources.
The Ministry of the Environment is promoting a three-pronged "protection and propagation project" to curb these effects: capture, propagation, and reintroduction. However, the philosophical question remains: Is it really right to manage nature by human hands? Artificial insemination is another method that has a low reproductive success rate and is far removed from nature's natural behavior patterns.
The decline of the thunderbird is not merely a "wildlife extinction crisis," but a stark warning about how we relate to nature. As a result of human activities that have warmed the mountains, opened them up, and brought them closer together, the life that was supposed to live there is disappearing. How should we accept responsibility for this? The restoration of habitat is a means to an end, and the question is how to build the idea of "living together" beyond that.
雷鳥が減ったのはなぜか――保護の名のもとに揺れる自然との距離感 - 2025年5月
雷鳥が減ったのはなぜか――保護の名のもとに揺れる自然との距離感 - 2025年5月
乗鞍岳の高山地帯に生息するニホンライチョウ。かつては本州中部の高山に広く見られたが、今では絶滅危惧種として保護の対象となっている。環境省は2025年5月、5羽の野生個体から精子を採取し人工授精を試みたが、その過程で1羽が命を落とした。だが、この事件の陰にある問いは、単なる失敗ではなく、そもそも雷鳥がなぜここまで数を減らしたのか、という本質的な問題である。
最大の原因は、気候変動による生息環境の崩壊だ。ライチョウは氷河期の生き残りであり、寒冷な高山帯にしか生息できない。そのため、温暖化によって高山帯の植生が変化し、冷涼な環境が失われるとともに、本来下層にしかいなかったキツネやカラスといった天敵の侵入が進んだ。これにより卵やヒナが捕食され、生存率は著しく低下した。
また、観光開発による人為的撹乱も無視できない。登山道の整備やスキー場の拡張、山岳交通の利便化により、かつて静謐だった生息地には年間数十万人の人が足を踏み入れるようになった。人間の接近はライチョウにとってストレスとなり、繁殖活動や採餌行動に悪影響を与えている。加えて、餌となる高山植物の盗掘や踏み荒らしも進み、餌資源の減少がさらなる打撃を与えている。
環境省は、これらの影響を抑えるために捕獲・繁殖・再導入の三本柱による「保護増殖事業」を進めている。しかし、自然を人間の手で管理すること自体が本当に正しいのかという哲学的問いがつきまとう。人工授精という手法もまた、繁殖成功率が低く、自然本来の行動様式からかけ離れた方法である。
雷鳥の減少は、単なる「野生動物の絶滅危機」ではなく、私たちが自然とどのように関わるかを問う鋭い警告である。人間の営為が山を暖め、山を開き、山を近づけた結果、そこに生きるはずだった命が消えていく。その責任を、私たちはどのように引き受けるべきなのか。生息数の回復は手段であり、その先にある「共に生きる」という思想をいかに築くかが問われている。
乗鞍岳の高山地帯に生息するニホンライチョウ。かつては本州中部の高山に広く見られたが、今では絶滅危惧種として保護の対象となっている。環境省は2025年5月、5羽の野生個体から精子を採取し人工授精を試みたが、その過程で1羽が命を落とした。だが、この事件の陰にある問いは、単なる失敗ではなく、そもそも雷鳥がなぜここまで数を減らしたのか、という本質的な問題である。
最大の原因は、気候変動による生息環境の崩壊だ。ライチョウは氷河期の生き残りであり、寒冷な高山帯にしか生息できない。そのため、温暖化によって高山帯の植生が変化し、冷涼な環境が失われるとともに、本来下層にしかいなかったキツネやカラスといった天敵の侵入が進んだ。これにより卵やヒナが捕食され、生存率は著しく低下した。
また、観光開発による人為的撹乱も無視できない。登山道の整備やスキー場の拡張、山岳交通の利便化により、かつて静謐だった生息地には年間数十万人の人が足を踏み入れるようになった。人間の接近はライチョウにとってストレスとなり、繁殖活動や採餌行動に悪影響を与えている。加えて、餌となる高山植物の盗掘や踏み荒らしも進み、餌資源の減少がさらなる打撃を与えている。
環境省は、これらの影響を抑えるために捕獲・繁殖・再導入の三本柱による「保護増殖事業」を進めている。しかし、自然を人間の手で管理すること自体が本当に正しいのかという哲学的問いがつきまとう。人工授精という手法もまた、繁殖成功率が低く、自然本来の行動様式からかけ離れた方法である。
雷鳥の減少は、単なる「野生動物の絶滅危機」ではなく、私たちが自然とどのように関わるかを問う鋭い警告である。人間の営為が山を暖め、山を開き、山を近づけた結果、そこに生きるはずだった命が消えていく。その責任を、私たちはどのように引き受けるべきなのか。生息数の回復は手段であり、その先にある「共に生きる」という思想をいかに築くかが問われている。
Why the Number of Thunderbirds Has Decreased--Distance from Nature Wavering in the Name of Conservation - May 2025
Why the Number of Thunderbirds Has Decreased--Distance from Nature Wavering in the Name of Conservation - May 2025
The Japanese grouse lives in the alpine region of Norikura-dake. Norikura. It was once widely seen in the high mountains of central Honshu, but is now an endangered species and subject to protection. In May 2025, the Ministry of the Environment attempted artificial insemination by collecting sperm from five wild individuals, but one bird lost its life in the process. The question behind this incident, however, is not simply failure, but the essential question of why the thunderbird's numbers have declined so much in the first place.
The primary cause is the collapse of their habitat due to climate change. Grouse are survivors of the Ice Age and can only live in cold alpine zones. Global warming has changed the vegetation in the alpine zone, resulting in the loss of a cooler environment and the invasion of natural enemies such as foxes and crows, which were originally found only in the lower regions. As a result, their eggs and chicks were preyed upon, and their survival rate declined significantly.
In addition, anthropogenic disturbance caused by tourism development cannot be ignored. The development of mountain trails, the expansion of ski resorts, and the convenience of mountain transportation have brought hundreds of thousands of people a year into this once tranquil habitat. The proximity of humans is stressful for grouse, negatively impacting their breeding and foraging behavior. In addition, the theft and trampling of alpine plants, which provide food for the grouse, has further reduced their food resources, which has had an even more devastating effect.
The Ministry of the Environment is promoting a three-pronged "protection and propagation project" to curb these effects: capture, propagation, and reintroduction. However, the philosophical question remains: Is it really right to manage nature by human hands? Artificial insemination is another method that has a low reproductive success rate and is far removed from nature's natural behavior patterns.
The decline of the thunderbird is not merely a "wildlife extinction crisis," but a stark warning about how we relate to nature. Human activity has warmed the mountains, opened them up, and brought them closer together, and as a result, the life that was supposed to live there is disappearing. How should we accept responsibility for this? The restoration of habitat is a means to an end, and the question is how to build the idea of "living together" beyond that.
The Japanese grouse lives in the alpine region of Norikura-dake. Norikura. It was once widely seen in the high mountains of central Honshu, but is now an endangered species and subject to protection. In May 2025, the Ministry of the Environment attempted artificial insemination by collecting sperm from five wild individuals, but one bird lost its life in the process. The question behind this incident, however, is not simply failure, but the essential question of why the thunderbird's numbers have declined so much in the first place.
The primary cause is the collapse of their habitat due to climate change. Grouse are survivors of the Ice Age and can only live in cold alpine zones. Global warming has changed the vegetation in the alpine zone, resulting in the loss of a cooler environment and the invasion of natural enemies such as foxes and crows, which were originally found only in the lower regions. As a result, their eggs and chicks were preyed upon, and their survival rate declined significantly.
In addition, anthropogenic disturbance caused by tourism development cannot be ignored. The development of mountain trails, the expansion of ski resorts, and the convenience of mountain transportation have brought hundreds of thousands of people a year into this once tranquil habitat. The proximity of humans is stressful for grouse, negatively impacting their breeding and foraging behavior. In addition, the theft and trampling of alpine plants, which provide food for the grouse, has further reduced their food resources, which has had an even more devastating effect.
The Ministry of the Environment is promoting a three-pronged "protection and propagation project" to curb these effects: capture, propagation, and reintroduction. However, the philosophical question remains: Is it really right to manage nature by human hands? Artificial insemination is another method that has a low reproductive success rate and is far removed from nature's natural behavior patterns.
The decline of the thunderbird is not merely a "wildlife extinction crisis," but a stark warning about how we relate to nature. Human activity has warmed the mountains, opened them up, and brought them closer together, and as a result, the life that was supposed to live there is disappearing. How should we accept responsibility for this? The restoration of habitat is a means to an end, and the question is how to build the idea of "living together" beyond that.
雷鳥が減ったのはなぜか――保護の名のもとに揺れる自然との距離感 - 2025年5月
雷鳥が減ったのはなぜか――保護の名のもとに揺れる自然との距離感 - 2025年5月
乗鞍岳の高山地帯に生息するニホンライチョウ。かつては本州中部の高山に広く見られたが、今では絶滅危惧種として保護の対象となっている。環境省は2025年5月、5羽の野生個体から精子を採取し人工授精を試みたが、その過程で1羽が命を落とした。だが、この事件の陰にある問いは、単なる失敗ではなく、そもそも雷鳥がなぜここまで数を減らしたのか、という本質的な問題である。
最大の原因は、気候変動による生息環境の崩壊だ。ライチョウは氷河期の生き残りであり、寒冷な高山帯にしか生息できない。そのため、温暖化によって高山帯の植生が変化し、冷涼な環境が失われるとともに、本来下層にしかいなかったキツネやカラスといった天敵の侵入が進んだ。これにより卵やヒナが捕食され、生存率は著しく低下した。
また、観光開発による人為的撹乱も無視できない。登山道の整備やスキー場の拡張、山岳交通の利便化により、かつて静謐だった生息地には年間数十万人の人が足を踏み入れるようになった。人間の接近はライチョウにとってストレスとなり、繁殖活動や採餌行動に悪影響を与えている。加えて、餌となる高山植物の盗掘や踏み荒らしも進み、餌資源の減少がさらなる打撃を与えている。
環境省は、これらの影響を抑えるために捕獲・繁殖・再導入の三本柱による「保護増殖事業」を進めている。しかし、自然を人間の手で管理すること自体が本当に正しいのかという哲学的問いがつきまとう。人工授精という手法もまた、繁殖成功率が低く、自然本来の行動様式からかけ離れた方法である。
雷鳥の減少は、単なる「野生動物の絶滅危機」ではなく、私たちが自然とどのように関わるかを問う鋭い警告である。人間の営為が山を暖め、山を開き、山を近づけた結果、そこに生きるはずだった命が消えていく。その責任を、私たちはどのように引き受けるべきなのか。生息数の回復は手段であり、その先にある「共に生きる」という思想をいかに築くかが問われている。
乗鞍岳の高山地帯に生息するニホンライチョウ。かつては本州中部の高山に広く見られたが、今では絶滅危惧種として保護の対象となっている。環境省は2025年5月、5羽の野生個体から精子を採取し人工授精を試みたが、その過程で1羽が命を落とした。だが、この事件の陰にある問いは、単なる失敗ではなく、そもそも雷鳥がなぜここまで数を減らしたのか、という本質的な問題である。
最大の原因は、気候変動による生息環境の崩壊だ。ライチョウは氷河期の生き残りであり、寒冷な高山帯にしか生息できない。そのため、温暖化によって高山帯の植生が変化し、冷涼な環境が失われるとともに、本来下層にしかいなかったキツネやカラスといった天敵の侵入が進んだ。これにより卵やヒナが捕食され、生存率は著しく低下した。
また、観光開発による人為的撹乱も無視できない。登山道の整備やスキー場の拡張、山岳交通の利便化により、かつて静謐だった生息地には年間数十万人の人が足を踏み入れるようになった。人間の接近はライチョウにとってストレスとなり、繁殖活動や採餌行動に悪影響を与えている。加えて、餌となる高山植物の盗掘や踏み荒らしも進み、餌資源の減少がさらなる打撃を与えている。
環境省は、これらの影響を抑えるために捕獲・繁殖・再導入の三本柱による「保護増殖事業」を進めている。しかし、自然を人間の手で管理すること自体が本当に正しいのかという哲学的問いがつきまとう。人工授精という手法もまた、繁殖成功率が低く、自然本来の行動様式からかけ離れた方法である。
雷鳥の減少は、単なる「野生動物の絶滅危機」ではなく、私たちが自然とどのように関わるかを問う鋭い警告である。人間の営為が山を暖め、山を開き、山を近づけた結果、そこに生きるはずだった命が消えていく。その責任を、私たちはどのように引き受けるべきなのか。生息数の回復は手段であり、その先にある「共に生きる」という思想をいかに築くかが問われている。
Forest Conservation through Seed Bank Technology - May 2003
Forest Conservation through Seed Bank Technology - May 2003
Nagaoka Environmental Development Co., Ltd. of Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture, is using "seed bank technology" for afforestation of mountain forest slopes. With this technology, logged cedar, pine, and other timber is chipped, mixed with seeds and fertilizer (nitrogen, phosphate, potassium, etc.) collected from the local soil, and then sprayed onto the ground for revegetation. It is particularly effective for slope restoration and is expected to reduce costs by 50% or more compared to conventional tree-planting methods.
With this technology, Nagaoka Environmental Development can not only prevent the invasion of non-native species, but also effectively restore native vegetation. Furthermore, this technology has increased the rate of revegetation from 25% to 35% per hectare, which has enabled the company to promote reforestation projects covering 10 hectares per year.
This initiative, which aims not only to maintain the local ecosystem but also to ensure sustainable use of forest resources, is spreading to other forest conservation enterprises in the province. It has also received a grant from the government's "Environmental Restoration Program" and is attracting attention as an important technology to support reforestation in the region.
Nagaoka Environmental Development Co., Ltd. of Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture, is using "seed bank technology" for afforestation of mountain forest slopes. With this technology, logged cedar, pine, and other timber is chipped, mixed with seeds and fertilizer (nitrogen, phosphate, potassium, etc.) collected from the local soil, and then sprayed onto the ground for revegetation. It is particularly effective for slope restoration and is expected to reduce costs by 50% or more compared to conventional tree-planting methods.
With this technology, Nagaoka Environmental Development can not only prevent the invasion of non-native species, but also effectively restore native vegetation. Furthermore, this technology has increased the rate of revegetation from 25% to 35% per hectare, which has enabled the company to promote reforestation projects covering 10 hectares per year.
This initiative, which aims not only to maintain the local ecosystem but also to ensure sustainable use of forest resources, is spreading to other forest conservation enterprises in the province. It has also received a grant from the government's "Environmental Restoration Program" and is attracting attention as an important technology to support reforestation in the region.
シードバンク技術による森林保全 - 2003年5月
シードバンク技術による森林保全 - 2003年5月
新潟県長岡市の「有限会社長岡環境開発」は、山林斜面の緑化において「シードバンク技術」を活用しています。この技術では、伐採された杉や松などの木材をチップ化し、それを現地の土壌から採取した種子と肥料（窒素、リン酸、カリウムなど）を混ぜ合わせ、吹き付けによる植生を行います。特に斜面の復元に有効で、従来の植樹方法に比べて50％以上のコスト削減が見込まれています。
長岡環境開発はこの技術により、外来種の侵入を防ぐだけでなく、在来の植物を効果的に再生することが可能です。さらに、この技術は1ヘクタールあたりの再植生率が従来の25％から35％に向上しており、これにより、年間10ヘクタールの森林再生プロジェクトを推進しています。
この取り組みは、地域の生態系を維持するだけでなく、森林資源の持続可能な利用を目指しており、県内の他の森林保全事業者にも広がりつつあります。また、政府の「環境再生プログラム」による補助金も得て、地域の森林再生を支える重要な技術として注目されています。
新潟県長岡市の「有限会社長岡環境開発」は、山林斜面の緑化において「シードバンク技術」を活用しています。この技術では、伐採された杉や松などの木材をチップ化し、それを現地の土壌から採取した種子と肥料（窒素、リン酸、カリウムなど）を混ぜ合わせ、吹き付けによる植生を行います。特に斜面の復元に有効で、従来の植樹方法に比べて50％以上のコスト削減が見込まれています。
長岡環境開発はこの技術により、外来種の侵入を防ぐだけでなく、在来の植物を効果的に再生することが可能です。さらに、この技術は1ヘクタールあたりの再植生率が従来の25％から35％に向上しており、これにより、年間10ヘクタールの森林再生プロジェクトを推進しています。
この取り組みは、地域の生態系を維持するだけでなく、森林資源の持続可能な利用を目指しており、県内の他の森林保全事業者にも広がりつつあります。また、政府の「環境再生プログラム」による補助金も得て、地域の森林再生を支える重要な技術として注目されています。
### Kumamoto Kuma River Flooding Disaster - July 2020
### Kumamoto Kuma River Flooding Disaster - July 2020
In July 2020, 14 people were killed at Senjuen, a special nursing home for the elderly, when the Kuma River in Kumamoto Prefecture overflowed due to torrential rain. The disaster was caused by a brief, torrential downpour that flooded homes and infrastructure across a wide area of Kumamoto Prefecture, including Yatsushiro City, Kuma Village, and Hitoyoshi City. Following the disaster, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and local company Kyushu Electric Power Co. have been strengthening levees and installing early warning systems, while Kumamoto Prefecture has been strengthening evacuation support plans for local residents. The increase in "linear precipitation zones" due to climate change is considered a future disaster prevention issue.
In July 2020, 14 people were killed at Senjuen, a special nursing home for the elderly, when the Kuma River in Kumamoto Prefecture overflowed due to torrential rain. The disaster was caused by a brief, torrential downpour that flooded homes and infrastructure across a wide area of Kumamoto Prefecture, including Yatsushiro City, Kuma Village, and Hitoyoshi City. Following the disaster, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and local company Kyushu Electric Power Co. have been strengthening levees and installing early warning systems, while Kumamoto Prefecture has been strengthening evacuation support plans for local residents. The increase in "linear precipitation zones" due to climate change is considered a future disaster prevention issue.
### 熊本県球磨川氾濫災害 - 2020年7月
### 熊本県球磨川氾濫災害 - 2020年7月
2020年7月、熊本県の球磨川で豪雨による氾濫が発生し、特別養護老人ホーム「千寿園」では14名が犠牲になりました。この災害は短時間の集中豪雨が原因で、熊本県内の八代市、球磨村、人吉市など広範囲にわたって住宅やインフラが浸水しました。災害後、国土交通省や地元企業の九州電力は堤防強化や早期警報システムの導入を進め、熊本県は地域住民の避難支援計画を強化しています。気候変動に伴う「線状降水帯」の増加が今後の防災対策の課題とされています。
2020年7月、熊本県の球磨川で豪雨による氾濫が発生し、特別養護老人ホーム「千寿園」では14名が犠牲になりました。この災害は短時間の集中豪雨が原因で、熊本県内の八代市、球磨村、人吉市など広範囲にわたって住宅やインフラが浸水しました。災害後、国土交通省や地元企業の九州電力は堤防強化や早期警報システムの導入を進め、熊本県は地域住民の避難支援計画を強化しています。気候変動に伴う「線状降水帯」の増加が今後の防災対策の課題とされています。
Can Greening and Insulation Cool Cities? --Three Perspectives on Heat Island Countermeasures in 2004
Can Greening and Insulation Cool Cities? --Three Perspectives on Heat Island Countermeasures in 2004
In 2004, as cities became increasingly hotter, architects, environmentalists, and government officials exchanged opinions on how to cool cities. The architects argued that house design that utilizes natural materials such as insulation and rooftop greenery is the frontline of environmental measures, and that it must strike a balance between comfort and the environment. Environmentalists, on the other hand, warned that heat flow in an entire city cannot be changed by house-by-house measures, and stressed the need for a master plan at the city planning level. Administrators stated that citizens' agreement was essential to make greening mandatory, and showed a willingness to explore approaches based on both institutions and awareness. Individuals and cities, regulation and freedom, comfort and sustainability--these intersecting positions eventually converged on the fundamental question, "Who will chart the future of cities? The heat island is not merely a heat problem, but a mir
ror reflecting the relationship between the city and people, and the debate at that time was also the beginning of a journey to explore the image of the city of the future.
In 2004, as cities became increasingly hotter, architects, environmentalists, and government officials exchanged opinions on how to cool cities. The architects argued that house design that utilizes natural materials such as insulation and rooftop greenery is the frontline of environmental measures, and that it must strike a balance between comfort and the environment. Environmentalists, on the other hand, warned that heat flow in an entire city cannot be changed by house-by-house measures, and stressed the need for a master plan at the city planning level. Administrators stated that citizens' agreement was essential to make greening mandatory, and showed a willingness to explore approaches based on both institutions and awareness. Individuals and cities, regulation and freedom, comfort and sustainability--these intersecting positions eventually converged on the fundamental question, "Who will chart the future of cities? The heat island is not merely a heat problem, but a mir
ror reflecting the relationship between the city and people, and the debate at that time was also the beginning of a journey to explore the image of the city of the future.
緑化と断熱は都市を冷やせるか？――2004年のヒートアイランド対策をめぐる三者の視点
緑化と断熱は都市を冷やせるか？――2004年のヒートアイランド対策をめぐる三者の視点
2004年、都市の高温化が深刻化するなか開かれた座談会では、建築家・環境学者・行政担当者の三者が、都市を冷やす術をめぐって意見を交わした。建築家は、断熱材や屋上緑化といった自然素材を活かした住宅設計こそが最前線の環境対策だと訴え、快適性と環境の両立を説いた。一方、環境学者は、住宅単位の工夫では都市全体の熱の流れは変わらないと警鐘を鳴らし、都市計画レベルでのマスタープランの必要性を説いた。行政は、緑化の義務化には市民の合意が不可欠とし、制度と意識の両輪によるアプローチを模索する姿勢を見せた。個人と都市、規制と自由、快適さと持続可能性――交錯する立場は、やがて「誰が都市の未来を描くのか」という根源的な問いへと収束する。ヒートアイランドとは単なる熱の問題ではなく�
�都市と人間の関係性を映し出す鏡であり、当時の議論は未来の都市像を探る旅の入口でもあった。
2004年、都市の高温化が深刻化するなか開かれた座談会では、建築家・環境学者・行政担当者の三者が、都市を冷やす術をめぐって意見を交わした。建築家は、断熱材や屋上緑化といった自然素材を活かした住宅設計こそが最前線の環境対策だと訴え、快適性と環境の両立を説いた。一方、環境学者は、住宅単位の工夫では都市全体の熱の流れは変わらないと警鐘を鳴らし、都市計画レベルでのマスタープランの必要性を説いた。行政は、緑化の義務化には市民の合意が不可欠とし、制度と意識の両輪によるアプローチを模索する姿勢を見せた。個人と都市、規制と自由、快適さと持続可能性――交錯する立場は、やがて「誰が都市の未来を描くのか」という根源的な問いへと収束する。ヒートアイランドとは単なる熱の問題ではなく�
�都市と人間の関係性を映し出す鏡であり、当時の議論は未来の都市像を探る旅の入口でもあった。
How Has China Invaded the U.S. Power Grid? --2009-2023
How Has China Invaded the U.S. Power Grid? --2009-2023
Despite its ostensible tranquility, the U.S. power grid has been a battleground of creeping foreign shadows for more than a decade. 2009, the Wall Street Journal revealed that suspicious intrusions into the U.S. power grid--apparently related to China and Russia--had left a trail of code intended to sabotage the future. was the fact that hackers had left a trail of code intended for future sabotage.
In 2012, an attack was reported targeting a power company in the Rayleigh, North Carolina area. Here, too, cyber actors believed to be of Chinese origin had been searching inside the network, starting with phishing emails. Their aim was not explicitly to disrupt, but to monitor and secure an entry point.
In late 2020, a widespread Russian-led attack via SolarWinds software shook the world, but it was later revealed that Chinese-origin hackers were also quietly at work behind the scenes.
In 2023, the NSA and FBI announced the existence of a Chinese infiltration operation called "Bolt Typhoon. This was a typical "living off the land" (LotL) tactic that did not use specific malware, but rather exploited legitimate Windows tools to infiltrate, with a view to inducing disruption in the event of an emergency by infiltrating deep into infrastructure networks such as power, communications, and water systems.
These examples are not blitzkrieg warfare with destruction. Rather, they present us with an invisible horizon of war that fosters long-term tension and distrust. The sparks that have been building up behind the circuits of silence may soon bring about an unforeseen dark turn.
Despite its ostensible tranquility, the U.S. power grid has been a battleground of creeping foreign shadows for more than a decade. 2009, the Wall Street Journal revealed that suspicious intrusions into the U.S. power grid--apparently related to China and Russia--had left a trail of code intended to sabotage the future. was the fact that hackers had left a trail of code intended for future sabotage.
In 2012, an attack was reported targeting a power company in the Rayleigh, North Carolina area. Here, too, cyber actors believed to be of Chinese origin had been searching inside the network, starting with phishing emails. Their aim was not explicitly to disrupt, but to monitor and secure an entry point.
In late 2020, a widespread Russian-led attack via SolarWinds software shook the world, but it was later revealed that Chinese-origin hackers were also quietly at work behind the scenes.
In 2023, the NSA and FBI announced the existence of a Chinese infiltration operation called "Bolt Typhoon. This was a typical "living off the land" (LotL) tactic that did not use specific malware, but rather exploited legitimate Windows tools to infiltrate, with a view to inducing disruption in the event of an emergency by infiltrating deep into infrastructure networks such as power, communications, and water systems.
These examples are not blitzkrieg warfare with destruction. Rather, they present us with an invisible horizon of war that fosters long-term tension and distrust. The sparks that have been building up behind the circuits of silence may soon bring about an unforeseen dark turn.
中国はどのようにアメリカの電力網に侵入してきたか？――2009年〜2023年
中国はどのようにアメリカの電力網に侵入してきたか？――2009年〜2023年
アメリカの電力網は表向きの静けさとは裏腹に十数年にわたり異国の影が忍び寄る戦場と化していた。2009年、ウォールストリートジャーナルが明らかにしたのは米国送電網への不審な侵入――中国やロシアに関連すると見られるハッカーたちが将来の妨害工作を意図したコードの痕跡を残していたという事実だった。
2012年、ノースカロライナ州レイリー地域の電力会社を標的とした攻撃が報告される。ここでも中国起源とされるサイバー行為者がフィッシングメールを皮切りにネットワーク内部の探索を進めていた。彼らの狙いは明確な破壊ではなく監視と侵入口の確保であった。
2020年末にはSolarWinds社のソフトウェアを介したロシア主導の広範な攻撃が世界を震撼させたがその陰で中国系ハッカーの活動も静かに進行していたことが後に判明する。
そして2023年、NSAとFBIは「ボルト・タイフーン」と呼ばれる中国の潜入作戦の存在を公表。これは特定のマルウェアを用いずWindowsの正規ツールを悪用して侵入を行う「リビング・オフ・ザ・ランド（LotL）」戦術の典型であり電力・通信・水道といったインフラ網に深く潜り込み有事における混乱誘発を視野に入れていた。
これら一連の事例は破壊をともなう電撃戦ではない。むしろ長期的な緊張と不信を育む見えざる戦争の地平を我々に提示している。沈黙の回路の裏で積み上げられてきた火種はやがて予兆なき暗転をもたらすかもしれない。
アメリカの電力網は表向きの静けさとは裏腹に十数年にわたり異国の影が忍び寄る戦場と化していた。2009年、ウォールストリートジャーナルが明らかにしたのは米国送電網への不審な侵入――中国やロシアに関連すると見られるハッカーたちが将来の妨害工作を意図したコードの痕跡を残していたという事実だった。
2012年、ノースカロライナ州レイリー地域の電力会社を標的とした攻撃が報告される。ここでも中国起源とされるサイバー行為者がフィッシングメールを皮切りにネットワーク内部の探索を進めていた。彼らの狙いは明確な破壊ではなく監視と侵入口の確保であった。
2020年末にはSolarWinds社のソフトウェアを介したロシア主導の広範な攻撃が世界を震撼させたがその陰で中国系ハッカーの活動も静かに進行していたことが後に判明する。
そして2023年、NSAとFBIは「ボルト・タイフーン」と呼ばれる中国の潜入作戦の存在を公表。これは特定のマルウェアを用いずWindowsの正規ツールを悪用して侵入を行う「リビング・オフ・ザ・ランド（LotL）」戦術の典型であり電力・通信・水道といったインフラ網に深く潜り込み有事における混乱誘発を視野に入れていた。
これら一連の事例は破壊をともなう電撃戦ではない。むしろ長期的な緊張と不信を育む見えざる戦争の地平を我々に提示している。沈黙の回路の裏で積み上げられてきた火種はやがて予兆なき暗転をもたらすかもしれない。
Empire of the Sneaky Foot--How China Invaded the U.S. Power Grid (2009-2023)
Empire of the Sneaky Foot--How China Invaded the U.S. Power Grid (2009-2023)
It began without alarm or gunfire: the invisible blade planted in the U.S. power grid in 2009 - the incident reported by the Wall Street Journal - was more than a simple hack. It was a preparation on the eve of war that infiltrated the nervous system of the nation. The investigation revealed the shadows of two powerful nations, China and Russia. China, in particular, had been silent, but was steadily extending its tentacles deep into the United States.
In 2012, several electric utilities, including those in North Carolina, began to experience unusual problems. Countless phishing emails, strange communication logs, and IPs from China were not intended to be directly disruptive. They were not intended to be directly destructive, just to find a "way in," record an "open door," and stay quiet. It was time for the enemy to draw a map.
Eventually, in 2020, as the SolarWinds incident exploded and the world watched Russia's cyber capabilities, China moved behind the scenes in silence. Power companies, government terminals, operational systems - Chinese-affiliated groups secretly infiltrated them, taking records and placing remote control footholds. Already, the United States was enveloped in an "electronic fog" in which it was impossible to determine who was friend and who was foe.
In 2023, the FBI and NSA announced a national "sneak attack" under the name Operation Volt Typhoon. Hackers backed by the Chinese government used "living off the land" tactics to blend into existing systems by exploiting legitimate tools instead of using malware. They entered with a duplicate key, without breaking down the door. In the Pacific region, especially in Hawaii, they were completely clandestine. They were not poised to attack, but to detonate. They were already there, ready to pull the trigger at any moment.
In this way, the Chinese had penetrated the U.S. power grid over a period of more than a decade. Not "breakthrough," but penetration. It has slipped through every security crack and is slowly taking root in the functioning of the nation. It is invisible and silent, but it is there.
Currently, there are no power outages. Equipment continues to operate. That is why it is so frightening. The enemy is already inside, yet no one sees its hand. In the silence, the poison turns, and a flame dwells in the depths of the electric pulse. The next time it awakens, American cities will lose their light, the water will stop, and a voiceless war may begin.
It began without alarm or gunfire: the invisible blade planted in the U.S. power grid in 2009 - the incident reported by the Wall Street Journal - was more than a simple hack. It was a preparation on the eve of war that infiltrated the nervous system of the nation. The investigation revealed the shadows of two powerful nations, China and Russia. China, in particular, had been silent, but was steadily extending its tentacles deep into the United States.
In 2012, several electric utilities, including those in North Carolina, began to experience unusual problems. Countless phishing emails, strange communication logs, and IPs from China were not intended to be directly disruptive. They were not intended to be directly destructive, just to find a "way in," record an "open door," and stay quiet. It was time for the enemy to draw a map.
Eventually, in 2020, as the SolarWinds incident exploded and the world watched Russia's cyber capabilities, China moved behind the scenes in silence. Power companies, government terminals, operational systems - Chinese-affiliated groups secretly infiltrated them, taking records and placing remote control footholds. Already, the United States was enveloped in an "electronic fog" in which it was impossible to determine who was friend and who was foe.
In 2023, the FBI and NSA announced a national "sneak attack" under the name Operation Volt Typhoon. Hackers backed by the Chinese government used "living off the land" tactics to blend into existing systems by exploiting legitimate tools instead of using malware. They entered with a duplicate key, without breaking down the door. In the Pacific region, especially in Hawaii, they were completely clandestine. They were not poised to attack, but to detonate. They were already there, ready to pull the trigger at any moment.
In this way, the Chinese had penetrated the U.S. power grid over a period of more than a decade. Not "breakthrough," but penetration. It has slipped through every security crack and is slowly taking root in the functioning of the nation. It is invisible and silent, but it is there.
Currently, there are no power outages. Equipment continues to operate. That is why it is so frightening. The enemy is already inside, yet no one sees its hand. In the silence, the poison turns, and a flame dwells in the depths of the electric pulse. The next time it awakens, American cities will lose their light, the water will stop, and a voiceless war may begin.
忍び足の帝国――中国はいかにしてアメリカの電力網へ侵入したか（2009年～2023年）
忍び足の帝国――中国はいかにしてアメリカの電力網へ侵入したか（2009年～2023年）
それは、警報も銃声もなく始まった。2009年、アメリカの電力網に仕掛けられた見えざる刃――ウォールストリートジャーナルが報じたその事件は、単なるハッキングではなかった。国家の神経系に潜り込む、戦争前夜の準備であった。調査により浮かび上がったのは、中国とロシア、二大強国の影。中でも中国は、沈黙を装いながら、その触手を着実にアメリカの奥深くに伸ばしていた。
2012年、ノースカロライナ州をはじめとする複数の電力会社に異変が起きた。無数のフィッシングメール、奇妙な通信ログ、そして中国からのIP。それらは直接の破壊を意図してはいなかった。ただ"入る道"を探し、"開かれた扉"を記録し、静かに滞在する。それは、敵が地図を描くための時間だった。
やがて2020年、SolarWinds事件が爆発し、世界がロシアのサイバー能力に目を奪われる中、中国は沈黙の奥で動いていた。電力関連の企業、政府の端末、運用システム――中国系のグループはそれらに密かに侵入し、記録を取り、遠隔操作の布石を置いていった。既にアメリカは、誰が味方で誰が敵かを判断できない"電子の霧"に包まれていた。
決定的だったのは2023年。Volt Typhoon作戦の名でFBIとNSAが公表したのは、国家規模の「潜伏」だった。中国政府が後ろ盾となるハッカーたちは、マルウェアを用いず、正規のツールを悪用し、既存のシステムに溶け込む"Living off the land"戦術を実行。彼らは扉を壊さず、合鍵で入ってきたのだ。特にハワイを中心とした太平洋地域では、完全なる隠密が成立していた。攻撃の構えではなく、起爆の準備。いつでも引き金が引ける場所に、既に彼らはいた。
このようにして、中国は十年以上の歳月をかけて、アメリカの電力網に侵入した。"突破"ではない、"浸透"である。あらゆる警備の隙間をすり抜け、国家機能の中にじわじわと根を張っていく。その姿は見えず、音もせず、だが確かに存在する。
現在、停電は起きていない。機器も動き続けている。だからこそ、それは恐ろしい。敵は既に中にいるのに、誰もその手を見ていない。静寂の中で毒は回り、電脈の奥に炎が宿る。次にそれが目を覚ますとき、アメリカの都市は光を失い、水が止まり、声なき戦争が始まるかもしれない。
それは、警報も銃声もなく始まった。2009年、アメリカの電力網に仕掛けられた見えざる刃――ウォールストリートジャーナルが報じたその事件は、単なるハッキングではなかった。国家の神経系に潜り込む、戦争前夜の準備であった。調査により浮かび上がったのは、中国とロシア、二大強国の影。中でも中国は、沈黙を装いながら、その触手を着実にアメリカの奥深くに伸ばしていた。
2012年、ノースカロライナ州をはじめとする複数の電力会社に異変が起きた。無数のフィッシングメール、奇妙な通信ログ、そして中国からのIP。それらは直接の破壊を意図してはいなかった。ただ"入る道"を探し、"開かれた扉"を記録し、静かに滞在する。それは、敵が地図を描くための時間だった。
やがて2020年、SolarWinds事件が爆発し、世界がロシアのサイバー能力に目を奪われる中、中国は沈黙の奥で動いていた。電力関連の企業、政府の端末、運用システム――中国系のグループはそれらに密かに侵入し、記録を取り、遠隔操作の布石を置いていった。既にアメリカは、誰が味方で誰が敵かを判断できない"電子の霧"に包まれていた。
決定的だったのは2023年。Volt Typhoon作戦の名でFBIとNSAが公表したのは、国家規模の「潜伏」だった。中国政府が後ろ盾となるハッカーたちは、マルウェアを用いず、正規のツールを悪用し、既存のシステムに溶け込む"Living off the land"戦術を実行。彼らは扉を壊さず、合鍵で入ってきたのだ。特にハワイを中心とした太平洋地域では、完全なる隠密が成立していた。攻撃の構えではなく、起爆の準備。いつでも引き金が引ける場所に、既に彼らはいた。
このようにして、中国は十年以上の歳月をかけて、アメリカの電力網に侵入した。"突破"ではない、"浸透"である。あらゆる警備の隙間をすり抜け、国家機能の中にじわじわと根を張っていく。その姿は見えず、音もせず、だが確かに存在する。
現在、停電は起きていない。機器も動き続けている。だからこそ、それは恐ろしい。敵は既に中にいるのに、誰もその手を見ていない。静寂の中で毒は回り、電脈の奥に炎が宿る。次にそれが目を覚ますとき、アメリカの都市は光を失い、水が止まり、声なき戦争が始まるかもしれない。
Can Greening and Insulation Cool Cities? --Three Perspectives on the 2004 Heat Island Debate
Can Greening and Insulation Cool Cities? --Three Perspectives on the 2004 Heat Island Debate
The 2004 roundtable discussion on the urban environment, "The Residential Building Debate in the Heat Island," was a debate among three parties--architects, environmentalists, and government officials--about how to respond to the rapidly worsening phenomenon of urban warming, or heat island effect, from their respective perspectives.
At the time, Tokyo and other large cities were experiencing "urban heat islanding," a phenomenon in which not only daytime temperatures rise but also nighttime temperatures cannot be expected to fall, and air conditioner use had become the norm, causing household electricity consumption to soar. This has led to questions about the sustainability of the power supply system and urban life, and the Ministry of the Environment and various local governments have been vocal about the need for mitigation measures.
The first to speak at this roundtable discussion was an architect. He argued that "improvements at the level of individual housing are the closest environmental measures that citizens can take." He said that building with natural materials, such as the use of insulation, airy floor plans, and rooftop greenery, would achieve both living comfort and environmental friendliness. In contrast, the environmentalist emphasized the need for a master plan that looks at the entire urban structure, saying that "individual housing improvements alone cannot change the heat flow in an entire city. He considered the fact that densely populated residential areas have been left unimproved as a contributing factor to heat islands, and argued that the "absence of urban planning" is the root of the problem.
In this discussion of individual versus city and micro versus macro, the government official's remarks were tinged with the color of a coordinator. He stated, "Citizen approval is essential to make it mandatory through ordinances and regulations." He also took a cautious stance on rooftop greening, for example, saying that although incentives are available through subsidy programs, social consensus is needed to make it mandatory. In fact, although some municipalities were offering greening subsidies, the low utilization rate indicated the difficulty in gaining public understanding.
The three parties' statements sometimes intersected and sometimes ran parallel. Architects said that "sustainable improvements cannot take root at the expense of comfort," while environmentalists countered that "reliance on air conditioning and artificial cooling accelerates global warming as a result. The government interceded, "It is precisely in order to get closer to the citizens that we should start with the mechanism. This conversation was not merely a technical discussion, but encompassed the question, "Who will envision the future of the city?
This debate vividly illuminated the dilemma facing Japanese society in the early 2000s: the dichotomy between "urban sustainability" and "civic comfort. The heat island phenomenon is not merely a weather phenomenon, but also a mirror that reveals the relationship between cities and people, and this roundtable discussion provided an opportunity to reexamine the nature of this phenomenon.
The 2004 roundtable discussion on the urban environment, "The Residential Building Debate in the Heat Island," was a debate among three parties--architects, environmentalists, and government officials--about how to respond to the rapidly worsening phenomenon of urban warming, or heat island effect, from their respective perspectives.
At the time, Tokyo and other large cities were experiencing "urban heat islanding," a phenomenon in which not only daytime temperatures rise but also nighttime temperatures cannot be expected to fall, and air conditioner use had become the norm, causing household electricity consumption to soar. This has led to questions about the sustainability of the power supply system and urban life, and the Ministry of the Environment and various local governments have been vocal about the need for mitigation measures.
The first to speak at this roundtable discussion was an architect. He argued that "improvements at the level of individual housing are the closest environmental measures that citizens can take." He said that building with natural materials, such as the use of insulation, airy floor plans, and rooftop greenery, would achieve both living comfort and environmental friendliness. In contrast, the environmentalist emphasized the need for a master plan that looks at the entire urban structure, saying that "individual housing improvements alone cannot change the heat flow in an entire city. He considered the fact that densely populated residential areas have been left unimproved as a contributing factor to heat islands, and argued that the "absence of urban planning" is the root of the problem.
In this discussion of individual versus city and micro versus macro, the government official's remarks were tinged with the color of a coordinator. He stated, "Citizen approval is essential to make it mandatory through ordinances and regulations." He also took a cautious stance on rooftop greening, for example, saying that although incentives are available through subsidy programs, social consensus is needed to make it mandatory. In fact, although some municipalities were offering greening subsidies, the low utilization rate indicated the difficulty in gaining public understanding.
The three parties' statements sometimes intersected and sometimes ran parallel. Architects said that "sustainable improvements cannot take root at the expense of comfort," while environmentalists countered that "reliance on air conditioning and artificial cooling accelerates global warming as a result. The government interceded, "It is precisely in order to get closer to the citizens that we should start with the mechanism. This conversation was not merely a technical discussion, but encompassed the question, "Who will envision the future of the city?
This debate vividly illuminated the dilemma facing Japanese society in the early 2000s: the dichotomy between "urban sustainability" and "civic comfort. The heat island phenomenon is not merely a weather phenomenon, but also a mirror that reveals the relationship between cities and people, and this roundtable discussion provided an opportunity to reexamine the nature of this phenomenon.
緑化と断熱は都市を冷やせるか？――2004年のヒートアイランド対策をめぐる三者の視点
緑化と断熱は都市を冷やせるか？――2004年のヒートアイランド対策をめぐる三者の視点
2004年の都市環境をめぐる座談会「ヒートアイランドの中の住宅建築論争」は、急速に深刻化する都市の温暖化現象、すなわちヒートアイランド現象への対応をめぐって、建築家、環境学者、行政担当者という三者がそれぞれの立場から議論を交わしたものである。
当時、東京をはじめとする大都市では、日中の気温上昇だけでなく、夜間の気温低下が見込めない「都市の高温化」が顕在化しており、これに伴ってエアコン使用が常態化し、家庭の電力消費が跳ね上がっていた。これにより、電力供給体制や都市生活の持続可能性が問われるようになり、環境省や各自治体も緩和策の必要性を声高に唱えていた。
この座談会でまず発言したのは建築家であった。彼は、「個人住宅レベルの改善が市民にとって最も近い環境対策である」と主張し、断熱材の使用、風通しの良い間取り、屋上緑化など、自然素材を活かした建築こそが、生活の快適性と環境配慮の両立を実現すると語った。それに対して環境学者は、「個々の住宅改善だけでは、都市全体の熱の流れは変えられない」として、都市構造全体に目を向けたマスタープランの策定こそが必要だと強調した。彼は、住宅密集地が整備されずに放置されてきたことをヒートアイランドの一因とみなし、「都市計画の不在」が問題の根本であると論じた。
こうした個人対都市、ミクロ対マクロの議論のなかで、行政担当者の発言は調整役の色彩を帯びていた。彼は、「条例や規制での義務化には、市民の納得が欠かせない」と述べ、例えば屋上緑化についても、助成制度によるインセンティブは用意されているが、それを義務とするには社会的合意が必要だと慎重な姿勢を示した。実際、自治体によっては緑化助成を行っていたものの、利用率が低調であることからも、市民理解の難しさがうかがえた。
三者の発言は時に交差し、時に平行線をたどった。建築家は、「快適性を犠牲にしては、持続可能な改善は根付かない」と語り、環境学者は、「エアコンや人工的冷却への依存は、結果として温暖化を加速させる」と反論。行政は、「市民との距離を近づけるためにこそ、まずは仕組みから始めるべきだ」と取りなした。この会話は、単なる技術論ではなく、「誰が都市の未来を構想するのか」という問いを内包していた。
この論争は、2000年代初頭の日本社会が直面していた「都市の持続性」と「市民生活の快適性」という二律背反のジレンマを鮮やかに照らし出すものであった。ヒートアイランドという現象は、単なる気象現象ではなく、都市と人間との関係性を浮かび上がらせる鏡でもあり、この座談会はその本質を見つめ直す一つの契機となっていた。
2004年の都市環境をめぐる座談会「ヒートアイランドの中の住宅建築論争」は、急速に深刻化する都市の温暖化現象、すなわちヒートアイランド現象への対応をめぐって、建築家、環境学者、行政担当者という三者がそれぞれの立場から議論を交わしたものである。
当時、東京をはじめとする大都市では、日中の気温上昇だけでなく、夜間の気温低下が見込めない「都市の高温化」が顕在化しており、これに伴ってエアコン使用が常態化し、家庭の電力消費が跳ね上がっていた。これにより、電力供給体制や都市生活の持続可能性が問われるようになり、環境省や各自治体も緩和策の必要性を声高に唱えていた。
この座談会でまず発言したのは建築家であった。彼は、「個人住宅レベルの改善が市民にとって最も近い環境対策である」と主張し、断熱材の使用、風通しの良い間取り、屋上緑化など、自然素材を活かした建築こそが、生活の快適性と環境配慮の両立を実現すると語った。それに対して環境学者は、「個々の住宅改善だけでは、都市全体の熱の流れは変えられない」として、都市構造全体に目を向けたマスタープランの策定こそが必要だと強調した。彼は、住宅密集地が整備されずに放置されてきたことをヒートアイランドの一因とみなし、「都市計画の不在」が問題の根本であると論じた。
こうした個人対都市、ミクロ対マクロの議論のなかで、行政担当者の発言は調整役の色彩を帯びていた。彼は、「条例や規制での義務化には、市民の納得が欠かせない」と述べ、例えば屋上緑化についても、助成制度によるインセンティブは用意されているが、それを義務とするには社会的合意が必要だと慎重な姿勢を示した。実際、自治体によっては緑化助成を行っていたものの、利用率が低調であることからも、市民理解の難しさがうかがえた。
三者の発言は時に交差し、時に平行線をたどった。建築家は、「快適性を犠牲にしては、持続可能な改善は根付かない」と語り、環境学者は、「エアコンや人工的冷却への依存は、結果として温暖化を加速させる」と反論。行政は、「市民との距離を近づけるためにこそ、まずは仕組みから始めるべきだ」と取りなした。この会話は、単なる技術論ではなく、「誰が都市の未来を構想するのか」という問いを内包していた。
この論争は、2000年代初頭の日本社会が直面していた「都市の持続性」と「市民生活の快適性」という二律背反のジレンマを鮮やかに照らし出すものであった。ヒートアイランドという現象は、単なる気象現象ではなく、都市と人間との関係性を浮かび上がらせる鏡でもあり、この座談会はその本質を見つめ直す一つの契機となっていた。
History of Port Improvements and Environmental Improvements at Shiogama Port, Miyagi Prefecture - April 2002 - November 2024
History of Port Improvements and Environmental Improvements at Shiogama Port, Miyagi Prefecture - April 2002 - November 2024
2002: Introduction of a purified seawall
In 2002, a "purification type seawall" was introduced at the port in the Mukaiyo district of Shiogama City, Miyagi Prefecture, to improve the quality of the surrounding water and protect the ecosystem. This technology uses a gravel contact oxidation method, in which a microbial film adhering to the seawall surface decomposes organic pollutants such as nitrogen compounds and phosphates. Water purification was promoted in the bay, which is highly enclosed. The adoption of this technology improved the growing environment for scallops and oysters, the main targets of the fishing industry, and contributed to the local economy.
Ltd. participated in the construction of the facility and used 5070 mm diameter gravel procured from a local stone supplier. In addition, environmental monitoring was continuously conducted around the port area to ensure that the project would have no impact on Matsushima Bay, an important center for the tourism industry. Thanks to these techniques and cooperative efforts, Shiogama's port has become a model case for sustainable development.
2020s: Enhancement and Development of Port Functions
In the 2020s, Shiogama Port District made progress in addressing aging port facilities and strengthening logistics functions. Existing wharves were restructured and reopened to reduce their impact on the economy. In addition, Marine Gate Shiogama was constructed as part of the Shiogama Port Port Renaissance 21 Plan, which emphasizes tourism and exchange. This facility serves as a passenger terminal and tourist hub, attracting many citizens and tourists.
At the same time, a redevelopment project is underway in the inner part of the port, with the aim of creating a waterfront-type exchange and cultural center. Through cooperation with the national and prefectural governments and related organizations, a plan to combine the economic and environmental values of the port is on its way to realization.
2002: Introduction of a purified seawall
In 2002, a "purification type seawall" was introduced at the port in the Mukaiyo district of Shiogama City, Miyagi Prefecture, to improve the quality of the surrounding water and protect the ecosystem. This technology uses a gravel contact oxidation method, in which a microbial film adhering to the seawall surface decomposes organic pollutants such as nitrogen compounds and phosphates. Water purification was promoted in the bay, which is highly enclosed. The adoption of this technology improved the growing environment for scallops and oysters, the main targets of the fishing industry, and contributed to the local economy.
Ltd. participated in the construction of the facility and used 5070 mm diameter gravel procured from a local stone supplier. In addition, environmental monitoring was continuously conducted around the port area to ensure that the project would have no impact on Matsushima Bay, an important center for the tourism industry. Thanks to these techniques and cooperative efforts, Shiogama's port has become a model case for sustainable development.
2020s: Enhancement and Development of Port Functions
In the 2020s, Shiogama Port District made progress in addressing aging port facilities and strengthening logistics functions. Existing wharves were restructured and reopened to reduce their impact on the economy. In addition, Marine Gate Shiogama was constructed as part of the Shiogama Port Port Renaissance 21 Plan, which emphasizes tourism and exchange. This facility serves as a passenger terminal and tourist hub, attracting many citizens and tourists.
At the same time, a redevelopment project is underway in the inner part of the port, with the aim of creating a waterfront-type exchange and cultural center. Through cooperation with the national and prefectural governments and related organizations, a plan to combine the economic and environmental values of the port is on its way to realization.
宮城県塩竈港の港湾整備と環境改善の歴史 - 2002年4月～2024年11月
宮城県塩竈港の港湾整備と環境改善の歴史 - 2002年4月～2024年11月
2002年：浄化式護岸の導入
2002年、宮城県塩竈市向洋地区の港湾では、周辺水質改善と生態系保護を目的として「浄化式護岸」が導入されました。この技術では、礫間接触酸化法を採用し、護岸表面に付着する微生物膜が窒素化合物やリン酸塩といった有機汚濁物質を分解。閉鎖性の高い湾内での水質浄化が進められました。この技術の採用により、漁業の主要対象であるホタテガイやカキの生育環境が改善され、地域経済にも貢献しました。
施設の建設には日本水工業株式会社が参加し、地元石材業者から調達した直径5070mmの礫を使用。さらに、港湾周辺では観光業の重要拠点である松島湾への影響を考慮し、環境モニタリングが継続的に行われました。こうした技術と協力体制により、塩竈市の港湾は持続可能な発展のモデルケースとなりました。
2020年代：港湾機能の強化と発展
2020年代に入り、塩釜港区では港湾施設の老朽化対策や物流機能の強化が進みました。既存埠頭の再編や再稼働が行われ、経済への影響を軽減。さらに、観光や交流を重視した「塩釜港ポートルネッサンス21計画」の一環として、マリンゲート塩釜が建設されました。この施設は旅客ターミナルや観光拠点として機能し、多くの市民や観光客を魅了しています。
一方で、港湾奥部の再開発事業も進行中であり、臨海型交流・文化拠点の創出を目指した取り組みが進められています。国や県、関係機関との協力により、港湾の経済的価値と環境的価値を両立させる計画が実現に向かっています。
2002年：浄化式護岸の導入
2002年、宮城県塩竈市向洋地区の港湾では、周辺水質改善と生態系保護を目的として「浄化式護岸」が導入されました。この技術では、礫間接触酸化法を採用し、護岸表面に付着する微生物膜が窒素化合物やリン酸塩といった有機汚濁物質を分解。閉鎖性の高い湾内での水質浄化が進められました。この技術の採用により、漁業の主要対象であるホタテガイやカキの生育環境が改善され、地域経済にも貢献しました。
施設の建設には日本水工業株式会社が参加し、地元石材業者から調達した直径5070mmの礫を使用。さらに、港湾周辺では観光業の重要拠点である松島湾への影響を考慮し、環境モニタリングが継続的に行われました。こうした技術と協力体制により、塩竈市の港湾は持続可能な発展のモデルケースとなりました。
2020年代：港湾機能の強化と発展
2020年代に入り、塩釜港区では港湾施設の老朽化対策や物流機能の強化が進みました。既存埠頭の再編や再稼働が行われ、経済への影響を軽減。さらに、観光や交流を重視した「塩釜港ポートルネッサンス21計画」の一環として、マリンゲート塩釜が建設されました。この施設は旅客ターミナルや観光拠点として機能し、多くの市民や観光客を魅了しています。
一方で、港湾奥部の再開発事業も進行中であり、臨海型交流・文化拠点の創出を目指した取り組みが進められています。国や県、関係機関との協力により、港湾の経済的価値と環境的価値を両立させる計画が実現に向かっています。
History and Current Status of Integrated Coastal Zone Management - Gyeonggi Bay
History and Current Status of Integrated Coastal Zone Management - Gyeonggi Bay
In 2004, illegal dumping became serious in Gyeonggi Bay, with several thousand tons of construction waste and waste plastic dumped annually. PCBs and lead were identified as hazardous substances, and the impact on groundwater pollution and the ecosystem became pronounced. ICZM (Integrated Coastal Zone Management) was introduced, and waste treatment facilities and education for residents were promoted. 2020s, illegal dumping reached approximately 50,000 tons per year, and the impact of lead, hexavalent chromium, etc. increased. 2023, "Korea Environmental Industry Corporation" will set up a facility to process 1,000 tons per day. While digital management and cleanup activities with the participation of local residents are proving effective, the challenge is to cope with the increase in waste resulting from urbanization. Sustainable management requires stronger policies and international cooperation.
In 2004, illegal dumping became serious in Gyeonggi Bay, with several thousand tons of construction waste and waste plastic dumped annually. PCBs and lead were identified as hazardous substances, and the impact on groundwater pollution and the ecosystem became pronounced. ICZM (Integrated Coastal Zone Management) was introduced, and waste treatment facilities and education for residents were promoted. 2020s, illegal dumping reached approximately 50,000 tons per year, and the impact of lead, hexavalent chromium, etc. increased. 2023, "Korea Environmental Industry Corporation" will set up a facility to process 1,000 tons per day. While digital management and cleanup activities with the participation of local residents are proving effective, the challenge is to cope with the increase in waste resulting from urbanization. Sustainable management requires stronger policies and international cooperation.
統合沿岸域管理の歴史と現状 - 京畿湾
統合沿岸域管理の歴史と現状 - 京畿湾
2004年、京畿湾では不法投棄が深刻化し、建設廃材や廃プラスチックが年間数千トン投棄されました。有害物質としてPCBや鉛が確認され、地下水汚染や生態系への影響が顕著に。ICZM（統合沿岸域管理）が導入され、廃棄物処理施設の整備や住民教育が進められました。2020年代には、不法投棄が年間約5万トンに達し、鉛や六価クロムなどの影響が拡大。2023年には「韓国環境産業株式会社」が1日1000トン処理の施設を設置。デジタル管理や住民参加型清掃活動が効果を上げる一方、都市化に伴う廃棄物増加への対応が課題となっています。持続可能な管理には政策強化と国際協力が求められます。
2004年、京畿湾では不法投棄が深刻化し、建設廃材や廃プラスチックが年間数千トン投棄されました。有害物質としてPCBや鉛が確認され、地下水汚染や生態系への影響が顕著に。ICZM（統合沿岸域管理）が導入され、廃棄物処理施設の整備や住民教育が進められました。2020年代には、不法投棄が年間約5万トンに達し、鉛や六価クロムなどの影響が拡大。2023年には「韓国環境産業株式会社」が1日1000トン処理の施設を設置。デジタル管理や住民参加型清掃活動が効果を上げる一方、都市化に伴う廃棄物増加への対応が課題となっています。持続可能な管理には政策強化と国際協力が求められます。
Illegal Dumping and Pollution Issues - History and Current Status
Illegal Dumping and Pollution Issues - History and Current Status
### The Beginnings of Pollution Issues in the 1990s
Since the 1990s, illegal dumping has been a major environmental issue worldwide. Industrial waste and hazardous materials, when not properly managed, cause air and water pollution, severely impacting ecosystems and human health. For example, in Toms River, New Jersey, USA, trichloroethylene and dioxins from chemical plants contaminated groundwater, leading to childhood cancer rates nearly double the national average. The US government enacted the Superfund law (CERCLA), holding companies responsible for approximately 2 billion USD in cleanup costs.
In Uttar Pradesh, India, industrial wastewater from textile factories and pharmaceutical companies flowed into the Ganges River, deteriorating water quality with heavy metals such as chromium and lead. The Indian government launched the "National Mission for Clean Ganga" to protect the environment, yet residents remain at risk of drinking contaminated water.
In Italy, near Naples in the Campania region, the criminal organization Camorra controls waste disposal. Hazardous materials like PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and asbestos are illegally buried, leading to an increase in cancer rates to 1.2 times the national average. Although the Italian government has strengthened penalties for companies involved in illegal waste disposal, the issue persists.
In Japan, construction waste in Gifu Prefecture is illegally dumped in forests and mountains, polluting water sources and soil with hazardous materials such as asbestos and PCBs. Gifu Prefecture, in collaboration with waste management companies, has increased penalties up to 5 million yen for violators, but illegal dumping remains a problem.
### The Current Situation and New Challenges in the 2020s
In the 2020s, the issue of illegal dumping has become even more severe, with increased risks from waste containing electronic devices, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals.
In Silicon Valley, California, USA, illegal dumping of electronic waste from the IT industry has become a major issue. Heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and lithium in computers and smartphones contaminate groundwater and soil, affecting the health of local residents. Companies like Apple and Tesla have made efforts to introduce recycling technology, but the waste management department reports that approximately 400,000 tons of electronic waste are not properly disposed of each year.
In Agbogbloshie, Ghana, known as "the world's largest electronic waste graveyard," electronic waste from Europe and the US is illegally dumped. Lead and mercury leaking from waste contaminates soil and water sources, with cancer and neurological disorders rising among local residents. Although the Ghanaian government is working to strengthen waste import regulations, approximately 500,000 tons of electronic waste are brought in each year, mostly without proper disposal.
In Hebei Province, China, hazardous waste from pharmaceutical and chemical factories is illegally dumped in farmlands and rivers, causing health issues among nearby residents. Chemicals like sulfuric acid and toluene pollute groundwater, expanding areas where well water is unsafe to drink. Over 200,000 tons of hazardous waste are illegally dumped each year in Hebei, and although the Chinese government has strengthened penalties and monitoring systems, the vast area to monitor complicates enforcement.
In the Campania region of Italy, the "Eco Mafia" problem continues into the 2020s, with illegal dumping polluting soil and water sources, particularly with waste containing PCBs and asbestos, posing significant health risks. There are an average of 3,000 illegal dumping cases annually in Campania, and while surveillance cameras and drones are used for monitoring, their effectiveness is limited.
### Corporate and International Efforts
In response to these issues, countries have begun to strictly require companies to properly dispose of waste and take responsibility for recycling. American companies such as Dell and Microsoft, and Germany's Siemens, have implemented electronic waste recycling programs, striving to increase the use of recycled materials. Europe has set a target under the "Circular Economy Package" to recycle 50% of all waste by 2025.
### Conclusion
The problem of illegal dumping not only leads to environmental destruction and health damage but also threatens the achievement of a sustainable society. Looking back at the history of pollution issues, the impact of illegal dumping continues to expand, making international cooperation essential for a solution. In the 2020s, autonomous environmental management by companies and increased public awareness within communities are necessary to build a sustainable environmental system.
### The Beginnings of Pollution Issues in the 1990s
Since the 1990s, illegal dumping has been a major environmental issue worldwide. Industrial waste and hazardous materials, when not properly managed, cause air and water pollution, severely impacting ecosystems and human health. For example, in Toms River, New Jersey, USA, trichloroethylene and dioxins from chemical plants contaminated groundwater, leading to childhood cancer rates nearly double the national average. The US government enacted the Superfund law (CERCLA), holding companies responsible for approximately 2 billion USD in cleanup costs.
In Uttar Pradesh, India, industrial wastewater from textile factories and pharmaceutical companies flowed into the Ganges River, deteriorating water quality with heavy metals such as chromium and lead. The Indian government launched the "National Mission for Clean Ganga" to protect the environment, yet residents remain at risk of drinking contaminated water.
In Italy, near Naples in the Campania region, the criminal organization Camorra controls waste disposal. Hazardous materials like PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and asbestos are illegally buried, leading to an increase in cancer rates to 1.2 times the national average. Although the Italian government has strengthened penalties for companies involved in illegal waste disposal, the issue persists.
In Japan, construction waste in Gifu Prefecture is illegally dumped in forests and mountains, polluting water sources and soil with hazardous materials such as asbestos and PCBs. Gifu Prefecture, in collaboration with waste management companies, has increased penalties up to 5 million yen for violators, but illegal dumping remains a problem.
### The Current Situation and New Challenges in the 2020s
In the 2020s, the issue of illegal dumping has become even more severe, with increased risks from waste containing electronic devices, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals.
In Silicon Valley, California, USA, illegal dumping of electronic waste from the IT industry has become a major issue. Heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and lithium in computers and smartphones contaminate groundwater and soil, affecting the health of local residents. Companies like Apple and Tesla have made efforts to introduce recycling technology, but the waste management department reports that approximately 400,000 tons of electronic waste are not properly disposed of each year.
In Agbogbloshie, Ghana, known as "the world's largest electronic waste graveyard," electronic waste from Europe and the US is illegally dumped. Lead and mercury leaking from waste contaminates soil and water sources, with cancer and neurological disorders rising among local residents. Although the Ghanaian government is working to strengthen waste import regulations, approximately 500,000 tons of electronic waste are brought in each year, mostly without proper disposal.
In Hebei Province, China, hazardous waste from pharmaceutical and chemical factories is illegally dumped in farmlands and rivers, causing health issues among nearby residents. Chemicals like sulfuric acid and toluene pollute groundwater, expanding areas where well water is unsafe to drink. Over 200,000 tons of hazardous waste are illegally dumped each year in Hebei, and although the Chinese government has strengthened penalties and monitoring systems, the vast area to monitor complicates enforcement.
In the Campania region of Italy, the "Eco Mafia" problem continues into the 2020s, with illegal dumping polluting soil and water sources, particularly with waste containing PCBs and asbestos, posing significant health risks. There are an average of 3,000 illegal dumping cases annually in Campania, and while surveillance cameras and drones are used for monitoring, their effectiveness is limited.
### Corporate and International Efforts
In response to these issues, countries have begun to strictly require companies to properly dispose of waste and take responsibility for recycling. American companies such as Dell and Microsoft, and Germany's Siemens, have implemented electronic waste recycling programs, striving to increase the use of recycled materials. Europe has set a target under the "Circular Economy Package" to recycle 50% of all waste by 2025.
### Conclusion
The problem of illegal dumping not only leads to environmental destruction and health damage but also threatens the achievement of a sustainable society. Looking back at the history of pollution issues, the impact of illegal dumping continues to expand, making international cooperation essential for a solution. In the 2020s, autonomous environmental management by companies and increased public awareness within communities are necessary to build a sustainable environmental system.
Illegal Dumping and Pollution Issues - History and Current Status
Illegal Dumping and Pollution Issues - History and Current Status
### The Beginnings of Pollution Issues in the 1990s
Since the 1990s, illegal dumping has been a major environmental issue worldwide. Industrial waste and hazardous materials, when not properly managed, cause air and water pollution, severely impacting ecosystems and human health. For example, in Toms River, New Jersey, USA, trichloroethylene and dioxins from chemical plants contaminated groundwater, leading to childhood cancer rates nearly double the national average. The US government enacted the Superfund law (CERCLA), holding companies responsible for approximately 2 billion USD in cleanup costs.
In Uttar Pradesh, India, industrial wastewater from textile factories and pharmaceutical companies flowed into the Ganges River, deteriorating water quality with heavy metals such as chromium and lead. The Indian government launched the "National Mission for Clean Ganga" to protect the environment, yet residents remain at risk of drinking contaminated water.
In Italy, near Naples in the Campania region, the criminal organization Camorra controls waste disposal. Hazardous materials like PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and asbestos are illegally buried, leading to an increase in cancer rates to 1.2 times the national average. Although the Italian government has strengthened penalties for companies involved in illegal waste disposal, the issue persists.
In Japan, construction waste in Gifu Prefecture is illegally dumped in forests and mountains, polluting water sources and soil with hazardous materials such as asbestos and PCBs. Gifu Prefecture, in collaboration with waste management companies, has increased penalties up to 5 million yen for violators, but illegal dumping remains a problem.
### The Current Situation and New Challenges in the 2020s
In the 2020s, the issue of illegal dumping has become even more severe, with increased risks from waste containing electronic devices, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals.
In Silicon Valley, California, USA, illegal dumping of electronic waste from the IT industry has become a major issue. Heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and lithium in computers and smartphones contaminate groundwater and soil, affecting the health of local residents. Companies like Apple and Tesla have made efforts to introduce recycling technology, but the waste management department reports that approximately 400,000 tons of electronic waste are not properly disposed of each year.
In Agbogbloshie, Ghana, known as "the world's largest electronic waste graveyard," electronic waste from Europe and the US is illegally dumped. Lead and mercury leaking from waste contaminates soil and water sources, with cancer and neurological disorders rising among local residents. Although the Ghanaian government is working to strengthen waste import regulations, approximately 500,000 tons of electronic waste are brought in each year, mostly without proper disposal.
In Hebei Province, China, hazardous waste from pharmaceutical and chemical factories is illegally dumped in farmlands and rivers, causing health issues among nearby residents. Chemicals like sulfuric acid and toluene pollute groundwater, expanding areas where well water is unsafe to drink. Over 200,000 tons of hazardous waste are illegally dumped each year in Hebei, and although the Chinese government has strengthened penalties and monitoring systems, the vast area to monitor complicates enforcement.
In the Campania region of Italy, the "Eco Mafia" problem continues into the 2020s, with illegal dumping polluting soil and water sources, particularly with waste containing PCBs and asbestos, posing significant health risks. There are an average of 3,000 illegal dumping cases annually in Campania, and while surveillance cameras and drones are used for monitoring, their effectiveness is limited.
### Corporate and International Efforts
In response to these issues, countries have begun to strictly require companies to properly dispose of waste and take responsibility for recycling. American companies such as Dell and Microsoft, and Germany's Siemens, have implemented electronic waste recycling programs, striving to increase the use of recycled materials. Europe has set a target under the "Circular Economy Package" to recycle 50% of all waste by 2025.
### Conclusion
The problem of illegal dumping not only leads to environmental destruction and health damage but also threatens the achievement of a sustainable society. Looking back at the history of pollution issues, the impact of illegal dumping continues to expand, making international cooperation essential for a solution. In the 2020s, autonomous environmental management by companies and increased public awareness within communities are necessary to build a sustainable environmental system.
### The Beginnings of Pollution Issues in the 1990s
Since the 1990s, illegal dumping has been a major environmental issue worldwide. Industrial waste and hazardous materials, when not properly managed, cause air and water pollution, severely impacting ecosystems and human health. For example, in Toms River, New Jersey, USA, trichloroethylene and dioxins from chemical plants contaminated groundwater, leading to childhood cancer rates nearly double the national average. The US government enacted the Superfund law (CERCLA), holding companies responsible for approximately 2 billion USD in cleanup costs.
In Uttar Pradesh, India, industrial wastewater from textile factories and pharmaceutical companies flowed into the Ganges River, deteriorating water quality with heavy metals such as chromium and lead. The Indian government launched the "National Mission for Clean Ganga" to protect the environment, yet residents remain at risk of drinking contaminated water.
In Italy, near Naples in the Campania region, the criminal organization Camorra controls waste disposal. Hazardous materials like PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and asbestos are illegally buried, leading to an increase in cancer rates to 1.2 times the national average. Although the Italian government has strengthened penalties for companies involved in illegal waste disposal, the issue persists.
In Japan, construction waste in Gifu Prefecture is illegally dumped in forests and mountains, polluting water sources and soil with hazardous materials such as asbestos and PCBs. Gifu Prefecture, in collaboration with waste management companies, has increased penalties up to 5 million yen for violators, but illegal dumping remains a problem.
### The Current Situation and New Challenges in the 2020s
In the 2020s, the issue of illegal dumping has become even more severe, with increased risks from waste containing electronic devices, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals.
In Silicon Valley, California, USA, illegal dumping of electronic waste from the IT industry has become a major issue. Heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and lithium in computers and smartphones contaminate groundwater and soil, affecting the health of local residents. Companies like Apple and Tesla have made efforts to introduce recycling technology, but the waste management department reports that approximately 400,000 tons of electronic waste are not properly disposed of each year.
In Agbogbloshie, Ghana, known as "the world's largest electronic waste graveyard," electronic waste from Europe and the US is illegally dumped. Lead and mercury leaking from waste contaminates soil and water sources, with cancer and neurological disorders rising among local residents. Although the Ghanaian government is working to strengthen waste import regulations, approximately 500,000 tons of electronic waste are brought in each year, mostly without proper disposal.
In Hebei Province, China, hazardous waste from pharmaceutical and chemical factories is illegally dumped in farmlands and rivers, causing health issues among nearby residents. Chemicals like sulfuric acid and toluene pollute groundwater, expanding areas where well water is unsafe to drink. Over 200,000 tons of hazardous waste are illegally dumped each year in Hebei, and although the Chinese government has strengthened penalties and monitoring systems, the vast area to monitor complicates enforcement.
In the Campania region of Italy, the "Eco Mafia" problem continues into the 2020s, with illegal dumping polluting soil and water sources, particularly with waste containing PCBs and asbestos, posing significant health risks. There are an average of 3,000 illegal dumping cases annually in Campania, and while surveillance cameras and drones are used for monitoring, their effectiveness is limited.
### Corporate and International Efforts
In response to these issues, countries have begun to strictly require companies to properly dispose of waste and take responsibility for recycling. American companies such as Dell and Microsoft, and Germany's Siemens, have implemented electronic waste recycling programs, striving to increase the use of recycled materials. Europe has set a target under the "Circular Economy Package" to recycle 50% of all waste by 2025.
### Conclusion
The problem of illegal dumping not only leads to environmental destruction and health damage but also threatens the achievement of a sustainable society. Looking back at the history of pollution issues, the impact of illegal dumping continues to expand, making international cooperation essential for a solution. In the 2020s, autonomous environmental management by companies and increased public awareness within communities are necessary to build a sustainable environmental system.
E-Waste Issues in the Agbogbrosi District of Ghana, Africa - November 2023 Summary
E-Waste Issues in the Agbogbrosi District of Ghana, Africa - November 2023 Summary
The Agbogbrosi District is considered "the world's largest graveyard of e-waste," with approximately 5,000,000 tons of e-waste illegally brought in from Europe and the United States each year. Toxic substances such as lead, cadmium, and mercury contained in computers and smartphones are not properly disposed of, contaminating soil and water sources. In particular, young people and children are engaged in manual disassembly work, resulting in growing health problems such as respiratory illnesses and neurological disorders. The local government, NGOs, and electronics manufacturers Dell and HP are providing recycling support and strengthening regulations, but the monitoring system is inadequate and the problem remains serious.
The Agbogbrosi District is considered "the world's largest graveyard of e-waste," with approximately 5,000,000 tons of e-waste illegally brought in from Europe and the United States each year. Toxic substances such as lead, cadmium, and mercury contained in computers and smartphones are not properly disposed of, contaminating soil and water sources. In particular, young people and children are engaged in manual disassembly work, resulting in growing health problems such as respiratory illnesses and neurological disorders. The local government, NGOs, and electronics manufacturers Dell and HP are providing recycling support and strengthening regulations, but the monitoring system is inadequate and the problem remains serious.
アフリカ・ガーナのアグボグブロシー地区の電子廃棄物問題 - 2023年11月要約
アフリカ・ガーナのアグボグブロシー地区の電子廃棄物問題 - 2023年11月要約
アグボグブロシー地区は、「世界最大の電子廃棄物の墓場」とされ、毎年約500000トンの電子廃棄物がヨーロッパやアメリカから違法に持ち込まれます。パソコンやスマートフォンなどに含まれる鉛やカドミウム、水銀などの有害物質が適切に処理されず、土壌や水源を汚染。特に、若者や子供が手作業で分解作業に従事し、呼吸器疾患や神経障害といった健康被害が拡大しています。現地政府やNGO、電子機器メーカーのデルやHPがリサイクル支援や規制強化を進めていますが、監視体制が不十分で、問題は依然として深刻です。
アグボグブロシー地区は、「世界最大の電子廃棄物の墓場」とされ、毎年約500000トンの電子廃棄物がヨーロッパやアメリカから違法に持ち込まれます。パソコンやスマートフォンなどに含まれる鉛やカドミウム、水銀などの有害物質が適切に処理されず、土壌や水源を汚染。特に、若者や子供が手作業で分解作業に従事し、呼吸器疾患や神経障害といった健康被害が拡大しています。現地政府やNGO、電子機器メーカーのデルやHPがリサイクル支援や規制強化を進めていますが、監視体制が不十分で、問題は依然として深刻です。
The "Decarbonized Fuel" Imminent at Construction Sites in the Kanto Region -- From Honmachi 4-chome, 2025
The "Decarbonized Fuel" Imminent at Construction Sites in the Kanto Region -- From Honmachi 4-chome, 2025
In May 2025, several media outlets, including the Nihon Keizai Shimbun, announced the introduction of RD40, a new environmentally friendly fuel led by Taisei Corporation and Itochu Enex. This RD40 is a next-generation diesel alternative fuel that replaces conventional diesel fuel and emits less CO₂. The first practical introduction of this fuel was carried out in the "Honmachi 4-chome Project (tentative name)," located in a corner of central Tokyo, where both urban construction and environmental considerations were sought.
This "Honmachi 4-chome" is the name of an area that is considered one of the central business districts bordering Tokyo's Chuo and Chiyoda wards, where high-rise buildings and redevelopment projects are densely located. Here, RD40 is used as fuel for construction equipment used at the building site, and environmentally friendly construction activities are being verified on site.
This initiative, which also includes the spread of RD40 throughout the Kanto region, is in line with Japan's national goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The construction industry was no exception, especially as the government began to push concepts such as "decarbonization-first regions" and "green transformation (GX)" in the 2020s.
In addition to the rush to redevelop the 23 wards of Tokyo, the background to this trend is the formulation of the "Guidelines for Low Carbon Construction Equipment" by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Conventional construction equipment emits large amounts of CO₂, and because construction in urban areas requires consideration for nearby residents, quietness and emission reduction performance are becoming more important.
In this context, the adoption of the RD40 is a concrete step toward CO₂ reduction at construction sites and a symbolic demonstration toward building a zero-emission city. Moreover, the concept of expanding throughout the Kanto region has the potential to spread to other metropolitan areas and even regional core cities in the future.
In other words, the quiet construction site in Honmachi 4-chome may soon become the starting point for changes in construction sites nationwide, and the RD40 fuel is not just an energy resource, but a new symbol for "sustainable urban development.
In May 2025, several media outlets, including the Nihon Keizai Shimbun, announced the introduction of RD40, a new environmentally friendly fuel led by Taisei Corporation and Itochu Enex. This RD40 is a next-generation diesel alternative fuel that replaces conventional diesel fuel and emits less CO₂. The first practical introduction of this fuel was carried out in the "Honmachi 4-chome Project (tentative name)," located in a corner of central Tokyo, where both urban construction and environmental considerations were sought.
This "Honmachi 4-chome" is the name of an area that is considered one of the central business districts bordering Tokyo's Chuo and Chiyoda wards, where high-rise buildings and redevelopment projects are densely located. Here, RD40 is used as fuel for construction equipment used at the building site, and environmentally friendly construction activities are being verified on site.
This initiative, which also includes the spread of RD40 throughout the Kanto region, is in line with Japan's national goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The construction industry was no exception, especially as the government began to push concepts such as "decarbonization-first regions" and "green transformation (GX)" in the 2020s.
In addition to the rush to redevelop the 23 wards of Tokyo, the background to this trend is the formulation of the "Guidelines for Low Carbon Construction Equipment" by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Conventional construction equipment emits large amounts of CO₂, and because construction in urban areas requires consideration for nearby residents, quietness and emission reduction performance are becoming more important.
In this context, the adoption of the RD40 is a concrete step toward CO₂ reduction at construction sites and a symbolic demonstration toward building a zero-emission city. Moreover, the concept of expanding throughout the Kanto region has the potential to spread to other metropolitan areas and even regional core cities in the future.
In other words, the quiet construction site in Honmachi 4-chome may soon become the starting point for changes in construction sites nationwide, and the RD40 fuel is not just an energy resource, but a new symbol for "sustainable urban development.
関東圏の建設現場に迫る「脱炭素燃料」の胎動 ――2025年、本町四丁目より
関東圏の建設現場に迫る「脱炭素燃料」の胎動 ――2025年、本町四丁目より
2025年5月、日本経済新聞など複数のメディアにより、大成建設と伊藤忠エネクスが主導する新たな環境対応燃料「RD40」の導入が発表された。このRD40とは、従来の軽油に代わる、よりCO₂排出量の少ない次世代型ディーゼル代替燃料である。初めての実用導入は、東京都心部の一角にある「（仮称）本町四丁目プロジェクト」において実施され、都市建設と環境配慮の両立が模索された。
この「本町四丁目」は、東京都中央区や千代田区と接するビジネス中心地の一つと考えられる地名であり、高層ビルや再開発事業が密集するエリアだ。ここでは、建築現場で使用する建設機械の燃料にRD40が用いられ、環境配慮型の建設活動が実地に検証されている。
関東圏全体への普及も視野に入れたこの取り組みは、2050年カーボンニュートラル達成を国家目標に掲げる日本の政策とも軌を一にする。特に2020年代に入り、政府が「脱炭素先行地域」や「グリーントランスフォーメーション（GX）」といった概念を前面に押し出し始めた中で、建設業界もその例外ではなかった。
背景には、東京23区の再開発ラッシュに加え、国土交通省・経済産業省による「建設機械の低炭素化指針」の策定もある。従来の建機はCO₂排出が多く、都市部での施工は近隣住民への配慮も求められるため、静音性や排出削減性能がより重視されるようになってきた。
こうした文脈においてRD40の採用は、建設現場での具体的なCO₂削減の一歩であり、ゼロエミッション都市の構築に向けた象徴的な実証でもある。しかも、関東圏全域に展開する構想は、将来的に他の大都市圏、さらには地方の中核都市にも広がる可能性を秘めている。
つまり、本町四丁目の静かな施工現場は、やがて全国の建設現場が変わっていく起点となるかもしれない。RD40という燃料は、単なるエネルギー資源ではなく、「持続可能な都市づくり」の新たな象徴なのである。
2025年5月、日本経済新聞など複数のメディアにより、大成建設と伊藤忠エネクスが主導する新たな環境対応燃料「RD40」の導入が発表された。このRD40とは、従来の軽油に代わる、よりCO₂排出量の少ない次世代型ディーゼル代替燃料である。初めての実用導入は、東京都心部の一角にある「（仮称）本町四丁目プロジェクト」において実施され、都市建設と環境配慮の両立が模索された。
この「本町四丁目」は、東京都中央区や千代田区と接するビジネス中心地の一つと考えられる地名であり、高層ビルや再開発事業が密集するエリアだ。ここでは、建築現場で使用する建設機械の燃料にRD40が用いられ、環境配慮型の建設活動が実地に検証されている。
関東圏全体への普及も視野に入れたこの取り組みは、2050年カーボンニュートラル達成を国家目標に掲げる日本の政策とも軌を一にする。特に2020年代に入り、政府が「脱炭素先行地域」や「グリーントランスフォーメーション（GX）」といった概念を前面に押し出し始めた中で、建設業界もその例外ではなかった。
背景には、東京23区の再開発ラッシュに加え、国土交通省・経済産業省による「建設機械の低炭素化指針」の策定もある。従来の建機はCO₂排出が多く、都市部での施工は近隣住民への配慮も求められるため、静音性や排出削減性能がより重視されるようになってきた。
こうした文脈においてRD40の採用は、建設現場での具体的なCO₂削減の一歩であり、ゼロエミッション都市の構築に向けた象徴的な実証でもある。しかも、関東圏全域に展開する構想は、将来的に他の大都市圏、さらには地方の中核都市にも広がる可能性を秘めている。
つまり、本町四丁目の静かな施工現場は、やがて全国の建設現場が変わっていく起点となるかもしれない。RD40という燃料は、単なるエネルギー資源ではなく、「持続可能な都市づくり」の新たな象徴なのである。
Climate Distortion and Human Response--Under a Scorching Sky in 2025
Climate Distortion and Human Response--Under a Scorching Sky in 2025
Climate change refers to long-term changes in global temperature, precipitation, and wind patterns. Recent climate change is not caused by natural cyclic variations, but mainly by human activities--especially greenhouse gas emissions from the massive consumption of fossil fuels. The effects of these changes are occurring on a global scale, resulting in extreme weather events, rising sea levels, melting glaciers, and changes in the habitats of many species.
In Japan, the effects of climate change are becoming increasingly severe in the 2020s. Summer heat waves reach nearly 40°C in urban areas, and emergency medical care due to heat stroke has become a social problem. In addition, torrential rains and river flooding caused by linear precipitation zones occur every year, causing extensive damage mainly in the Kyushu and Tohoku regions. In the agricultural sector as well, there have been declines in rice quality and disruptions in the flowering season of fruit trees, forcing production sites to adapt in unprecedented ways. Furthermore, the combination of aging infrastructure and climate change has reached a stage where the impact on urban functions cannot be ignored, including damage to roads and instability in the power supply.
In 2021, the Law Concerning the Promotion of the Measures to Cope with Global Warming was revised to specify that Japan must become carbon neutral by 2050, institutionalizing a path toward a decarbonized society. Green Transformation (GX)" basic policy was formulated, and innovative technologies such as renewable energy, hydrogen, storage batteries, and carbon capture and storage (CCUS) were put forward as policy pillars. In addition, based on the Climate Change Adaptation Law, national and local governments were systematically obliged to assess local climate risks and take adaptation measures.
Internationally, the Paris Agreement adopted in 2015 remains the core of climate policy. Countries around the world aim to limit the temperature increase from pre-industrial times to within 1.5 degrees Celsius, and at COP28 in 2023, an agreement was reached to "phase out" fossil fuels. In addition, "climate lawsuits" alleging inadequate climate measures by corporations and governments are on the rise worldwide, and we are now in an era in which responsibility for climate change is being challenged in the legal arena as well.
Climate change is also driving major changes in the economic and technological spheres. Companies are now required to disclose information on their greenhouse gas emissions and climate risks under the TCFD (Climate-related Financial Disclosure), and investors are becoming increasingly interested. Economic instruments such as emissions trading schemes and carbon taxes are also being introduced, and climate-related technologies, or "climate tech," are attracting attention from start-ups to major corporations.
Climate change is also a topic of great interest to civil society, and movements such as "Fridays For Future" are being developed in many places, especially among young people. Some local governments, such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the City of Sapporo, have declared a "climate emergency" and are beginning to share a sense of crisis in terms of policy. In school education, climate change is also being addressed as a theme for inquiry-based learning and ESD (Education for Sustainable Development) to raise the awareness of the next generation.
In 2025, the degree to which society as a whole can respond to this challenge in a timely and fair manner will determine the sustainability of the future.
Climate change refers to long-term changes in global temperature, precipitation, and wind patterns. Recent climate change is not caused by natural cyclic variations, but mainly by human activities--especially greenhouse gas emissions from the massive consumption of fossil fuels. The effects of these changes are occurring on a global scale, resulting in extreme weather events, rising sea levels, melting glaciers, and changes in the habitats of many species.
In Japan, the effects of climate change are becoming increasingly severe in the 2020s. Summer heat waves reach nearly 40°C in urban areas, and emergency medical care due to heat stroke has become a social problem. In addition, torrential rains and river flooding caused by linear precipitation zones occur every year, causing extensive damage mainly in the Kyushu and Tohoku regions. In the agricultural sector as well, there have been declines in rice quality and disruptions in the flowering season of fruit trees, forcing production sites to adapt in unprecedented ways. Furthermore, the combination of aging infrastructure and climate change has reached a stage where the impact on urban functions cannot be ignored, including damage to roads and instability in the power supply.
In 2021, the Law Concerning the Promotion of the Measures to Cope with Global Warming was revised to specify that Japan must become carbon neutral by 2050, institutionalizing a path toward a decarbonized society. Green Transformation (GX)" basic policy was formulated, and innovative technologies such as renewable energy, hydrogen, storage batteries, and carbon capture and storage (CCUS) were put forward as policy pillars. In addition, based on the Climate Change Adaptation Law, national and local governments were systematically obliged to assess local climate risks and take adaptation measures.
Internationally, the Paris Agreement adopted in 2015 remains the core of climate policy. Countries around the world aim to limit the temperature increase from pre-industrial times to within 1.5 degrees Celsius, and at COP28 in 2023, an agreement was reached to "phase out" fossil fuels. In addition, "climate lawsuits" alleging inadequate climate measures by corporations and governments are on the rise worldwide, and we are now in an era in which responsibility for climate change is being challenged in the legal arena as well.
Climate change is also driving major changes in the economic and technological spheres. Companies are now required to disclose information on their greenhouse gas emissions and climate risks under the TCFD (Climate-related Financial Disclosure), and investors are becoming increasingly interested. Economic instruments such as emissions trading schemes and carbon taxes are also being introduced, and climate-related technologies, or "climate tech," are attracting attention from start-ups to major corporations.
Climate change is also a topic of great interest to civil society, and movements such as "Fridays For Future" are being developed in many places, especially among young people. Some local governments, such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the City of Sapporo, have declared a "climate emergency" and are beginning to share a sense of crisis in terms of policy. In school education, climate change is also being addressed as a theme for inquiry-based learning and ESD (Education for Sustainable Development) to raise the awareness of the next generation.
In 2025, the degree to which society as a whole can respond to this challenge in a timely and fair manner will determine the sustainability of the future.
気候の歪みと人間の応答 ――2025年、灼けつく空の下で
気候の歪みと人間の応答 ――2025年、灼けつく空の下で
気候変動とは、地球全体の気温や降水、風のパターンなどが長期的に変化する現象を指す。近年の気候変動は、自然の周期的変動によるものではなく、主に人間の活動――特に化石燃料の大量消費による温室効果ガスの排出――が原因とされている。その影響は世界規模で進行しており、異常気象、海面上昇、氷河の融解、そして多くの生物種の生息域の変化をもたらしている。
日本においても、2020年代に入ってから気候変動の影響は深刻さを増している。夏の猛暑は都市部で40度近くに達し、熱中症による救急搬送が社会問題化している。また、線状降水帯による集中豪雨や河川の氾濫が毎年のように発生し、九州や東北地方を中心に甚大な被害が出ている。農業分野でも稲の品質低下や果樹の花期の乱れが見られ、生産現場はかつてない適応を迫られている。さらに、インフラ老朽化と気候変動が重なり、道路の損傷や電力供給の不安定化など、都市機能への影響も無視できない段階に至っている。
こうした状況を受け、日本政府も本格的な政策転換を進めてきた。2021年の地球温暖化対策推進法の改正では、「2050年カーボンニュートラル」の実現が法律に明記され、脱炭素社会の道筋が制度化された。2023年には、経済と環境を両立させる「グリーントランスフォーメーション（GX）」基本方針が策定され、再生可能エネルギーや水素、蓄電池、CCUS（二酸化炭素回収・貯留）などの革新的技術が政策の柱として打ち出された。また、気候変動適応法に基づき、国や自治体が地域の気候リスクを評価し、適応策を講じることが制度的に義務づけられた。
国際的には、2015年に採択されたパリ協定が現在も気候政策の中核をなしている。世界各国は、産業革命前からの気温上昇を1.5度以内に抑えることを目標としており、2023年のCOP28では、化石燃料の「段階的削減」に向けた合意がなされた。また、企業や政府の気候対策の不十分さを訴える「気候訴訟」も世界的に増加しており、法の場でも気候変動への責任が問われる時代となっている。
経済や技術の分野においても、気候変動は大きな変化を促している。企業は「TCFD（気候関連財務情報開示）」により、温室効果ガス排出量や気候リスクの情報開示を求められるようになり、投資家の関心も高まっている。排出量取引制度や炭素税といった経済的手法の導入も進められ、気候関連技術、いわゆる「クライメートテック」はスタートアップから大手企業に至るまで注目を集めている。
市民社会でも、気候変動は関心の高いテーマであり、若者を中心に「Fridays For Future」などの運動が各地で展開されている。東京都や札幌市など、いくつかの自治体は「気候非常事態宣言」を出し、政策面でも危機意識を共有し始めている。学校教育でも、気候変動が探究学習やESD（持続可能な開発のための教育）のテーマとして扱われ、次世代の意識形成が図られている。
このように、気候変動は自然科学にとどまらず、政治、経済、技術、教育、そして市民生活そのものに深く関わる「時代の課題」である。2025年現在、この課題に対して社会全体でどれだけ迅速かつ公正に対応できるかが、未来の持続可能性を決定づけることになる。
気候変動とは、地球全体の気温や降水、風のパターンなどが長期的に変化する現象を指す。近年の気候変動は、自然の周期的変動によるものではなく、主に人間の活動――特に化石燃料の大量消費による温室効果ガスの排出――が原因とされている。その影響は世界規模で進行しており、異常気象、海面上昇、氷河の融解、そして多くの生物種の生息域の変化をもたらしている。
日本においても、2020年代に入ってから気候変動の影響は深刻さを増している。夏の猛暑は都市部で40度近くに達し、熱中症による救急搬送が社会問題化している。また、線状降水帯による集中豪雨や河川の氾濫が毎年のように発生し、九州や東北地方を中心に甚大な被害が出ている。農業分野でも稲の品質低下や果樹の花期の乱れが見られ、生産現場はかつてない適応を迫られている。さらに、インフラ老朽化と気候変動が重なり、道路の損傷や電力供給の不安定化など、都市機能への影響も無視できない段階に至っている。
こうした状況を受け、日本政府も本格的な政策転換を進めてきた。2021年の地球温暖化対策推進法の改正では、「2050年カーボンニュートラル」の実現が法律に明記され、脱炭素社会の道筋が制度化された。2023年には、経済と環境を両立させる「グリーントランスフォーメーション（GX）」基本方針が策定され、再生可能エネルギーや水素、蓄電池、CCUS（二酸化炭素回収・貯留）などの革新的技術が政策の柱として打ち出された。また、気候変動適応法に基づき、国や自治体が地域の気候リスクを評価し、適応策を講じることが制度的に義務づけられた。
国際的には、2015年に採択されたパリ協定が現在も気候政策の中核をなしている。世界各国は、産業革命前からの気温上昇を1.5度以内に抑えることを目標としており、2023年のCOP28では、化石燃料の「段階的削減」に向けた合意がなされた。また、企業や政府の気候対策の不十分さを訴える「気候訴訟」も世界的に増加しており、法の場でも気候変動への責任が問われる時代となっている。
経済や技術の分野においても、気候変動は大きな変化を促している。企業は「TCFD（気候関連財務情報開示）」により、温室効果ガス排出量や気候リスクの情報開示を求められるようになり、投資家の関心も高まっている。排出量取引制度や炭素税といった経済的手法の導入も進められ、気候関連技術、いわゆる「クライメートテック」はスタートアップから大手企業に至るまで注目を集めている。
市民社会でも、気候変動は関心の高いテーマであり、若者を中心に「Fridays For Future」などの運動が各地で展開されている。東京都や札幌市など、いくつかの自治体は「気候非常事態宣言」を出し、政策面でも危機意識を共有し始めている。学校教育でも、気候変動が探究学習やESD（持続可能な開発のための教育）のテーマとして扱われ、次世代の意識形成が図られている。
このように、気候変動は自然科学にとどまらず、政治、経済、技術、教育、そして市民生活そのものに深く関わる「時代の課題」である。2025年現在、この課題に対して社会全体でどれだけ迅速かつ公正に対応できるかが、未来の持続可能性を決定づけることになる。
Geothermal Utilization System - February 2004
Geothermal Utilization System - February 2004
The geothermal utilization system is a highly energy-efficient technology that uses the stable temperature of the ground to provide heating, cooling, and freeze prevention. This system is particularly effective in cold regions or areas with significant temperature fluctuations. The "BHES" (Borehole Heat Exchanger System) developed by Misawa Environmental Technology involves installing heat exchange pipes about 100 meters underground to utilize geothermal heat for heating and cooling buildings and infrastructure.
This system has been implemented in over 40 locations across Japan, including public facilities in Sapporo City, Hokkaido, particularly Sapporo Dome, and commercial facilities in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture. In Sapporo, the BHES system is used to prevent road freezing, helping to reduce winter snow and ice buildup on roads and sidewalks. This has led to a 30% reduction in snow removal costs annually. Additionally, the system has reduced CO2 emissions by about 25% annually, which has been recognized as a significant achievement in lowering the environmental impact by local governments.
Compared to traditional fossil fuel-based heating and cooling systems, this technology achieves significant cost savings. A commercial facility in Aomori Prefecture has reduced its annual energy consumption by approximately 15%, saving around 3 million yen in operating costs. The system can be customized according to regional geological conditions, and its installation is spreading nationwide.
In the future, the wider adoption of geothermal utilization systems is expected. Major energy companies like Tokyo Electric Power are also considering implementing these systems in urban areas. This technology is drawing attention not only for reducing energy costs but also for significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The geothermal utilization system is a highly energy-efficient technology that uses the stable temperature of the ground to provide heating, cooling, and freeze prevention. This system is particularly effective in cold regions or areas with significant temperature fluctuations. The "BHES" (Borehole Heat Exchanger System) developed by Misawa Environmental Technology involves installing heat exchange pipes about 100 meters underground to utilize geothermal heat for heating and cooling buildings and infrastructure.
This system has been implemented in over 40 locations across Japan, including public facilities in Sapporo City, Hokkaido, particularly Sapporo Dome, and commercial facilities in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture. In Sapporo, the BHES system is used to prevent road freezing, helping to reduce winter snow and ice buildup on roads and sidewalks. This has led to a 30% reduction in snow removal costs annually. Additionally, the system has reduced CO2 emissions by about 25% annually, which has been recognized as a significant achievement in lowering the environmental impact by local governments.
Compared to traditional fossil fuel-based heating and cooling systems, this technology achieves significant cost savings. A commercial facility in Aomori Prefecture has reduced its annual energy consumption by approximately 15%, saving around 3 million yen in operating costs. The system can be customized according to regional geological conditions, and its installation is spreading nationwide.
In the future, the wider adoption of geothermal utilization systems is expected. Major energy companies like Tokyo Electric Power are also considering implementing these systems in urban areas. This technology is drawing attention not only for reducing energy costs but also for significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Geothermal Utilization System - February 2004
Geothermal Utilization System - February 2004
The geothermal utilization system is a highly energy-efficient technology that uses the stable temperature of the ground to provide heating, cooling, and freeze prevention. This system is particularly effective in cold regions or areas with significant temperature fluctuations. The "BHES" (Borehole Heat Exchanger System) developed by Misawa Environmental Technology involves installing heat exchange pipes about 100 meters underground to utilize geothermal heat for heating and cooling buildings and infrastructure.
This system has been implemented in over 40 locations across Japan, including public facilities in Sapporo City, Hokkaido, particularly Sapporo Dome, and commercial facilities in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture. In Sapporo, the BHES system is used to prevent road freezing, helping to reduce winter snow and ice buildup on roads and sidewalks. This has led to a 30% reduction in snow removal costs annually. Additionally, the system has reduced CO2 emissions by about 25% annually, which has been recognized as a significant achievement in lowering the environmental impact by local governments.
Compared to traditional fossil fuel-based heating and cooling systems, this technology achieves significant cost savings. A commercial facility in Aomori Prefecture has reduced its annual energy consumption by approximately 15%, saving around 3 million yen in operating costs. The system can be customized according to regional geological conditions, and its installation is spreading nationwide.
In the future, the wider adoption of geothermal utilization systems is expected. Major energy companies like Tokyo Electric Power are also considering implementing these systems in urban areas. This technology is drawing attention not only for reducing energy costs but also for significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The geothermal utilization system is a highly energy-efficient technology that uses the stable temperature of the ground to provide heating, cooling, and freeze prevention. This system is particularly effective in cold regions or areas with significant temperature fluctuations. The "BHES" (Borehole Heat Exchanger System) developed by Misawa Environmental Technology involves installing heat exchange pipes about 100 meters underground to utilize geothermal heat for heating and cooling buildings and infrastructure.
This system has been implemented in over 40 locations across Japan, including public facilities in Sapporo City, Hokkaido, particularly Sapporo Dome, and commercial facilities in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture. In Sapporo, the BHES system is used to prevent road freezing, helping to reduce winter snow and ice buildup on roads and sidewalks. This has led to a 30% reduction in snow removal costs annually. Additionally, the system has reduced CO2 emissions by about 25% annually, which has been recognized as a significant achievement in lowering the environmental impact by local governments.
Compared to traditional fossil fuel-based heating and cooling systems, this technology achieves significant cost savings. A commercial facility in Aomori Prefecture has reduced its annual energy consumption by approximately 15%, saving around 3 million yen in operating costs. The system can be customized according to regional geological conditions, and its installation is spreading nationwide.
In the future, the wider adoption of geothermal utilization systems is expected. Major energy companies like Tokyo Electric Power are also considering implementing these systems in urban areas. This technology is drawing attention not only for reducing energy costs but also for significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
History of Shochu Distillate Lees Recycling in Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture - September 1997
History of Shochu Distillate Lees Recycling in Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture - September 1997
In 1997, Kirishima Shuzo, a brewery in Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture, and Kajima Corporation jointly developed a methane fermentation system using shochu distillation residue, a byproduct of shochu production. The technology converts 70% of the shochu distillation residue into methane gas and 30% into compost, with the methane gas produced providing approximately 50% of the plant's overall heat energy needs. The composted residues were used for local agriculture, helping to improve the fertility of the farmland. This initiative set a new standard for waste management in the shochu production industry and attracted attention as a model case for complying with the ban on ocean dumping that was scheduled to take effect in 2001.
Progress in the 2000s
In 2003, Kirishima Shuzo started operation of a methane fermentation treatment plant for shochu dregs, but at first the process was not stable, and shochu production had to be temporarily suspended. After much research with Kajima Corporation, a new plant was installed in 2006, and it is now capable of stably processing approximately 650 tons of shochu dregs per day. The biogas produced is used as fuel for the plant, contributing to an annual reduction of approximately 3,000 tons of CO
Development in the 2010s
In 2012, with the start of the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) program for renewable energy, Kirishima Shuzo installed power generation equipment to utilize surplus biogas. 2014 saw the start of "sweet potato power generation," producing approximately 7 million kWh of electricity per year (enough for approximately 2000 households). Through the sale of electricity to Kyushu Electric Power Company, the company successfully generated annual revenues of approximately 200 million yen. In addition, compost extracted from shochu dregs is increasingly being used in local agriculture, contributing greatly to the fertility of farmland.
Furthermore, Kirishima Shuzo promoted the upgrading of its composting equipment and energy recovery system in order to improve the efficiency of the manufacturing process and reduce environmental impact. As a result, the company has established a system in which the majority of energy used throughout the plant is generated in-house.
Initiatives for the 2020s
In the 2020s, all plants will process approximately 850 tons of shochu dregs per day, generating approximately 34,000 cubic meters of biogas. This amount is equivalent to the energy needed to power approximately 22,000 households. At the Head Office Expansion Plant and the Shihida No. 2 Expansion Plant, 60% of the annual fuel consumption is covered by biogas, resulting in an annual reduction of approximately 4,500 tons of CO₂. Part of the biogas produced is used to generate electricity, which is then supplied to each household.
In 2023, the Kirishima Sweet Potato Seed and Seedling Production Center "Imo Terrace" will be in operation, supplying healthy seedlings to 1,200 registered farmers. We are evolving as a "recycling-oriented company" that completes the entire process from raw material production to waste recycling.
Summary
Kirishima Shuzo's efforts to effectively utilize waste and reduce the environmental impact of shochu production have made a significant contribution to the sustainability of the local community. This history is widely regarded as a pioneering example that can serve as a model for other companies seeking to transition to a recycling-oriented society.
In 1997, Kirishima Shuzo, a brewery in Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture, and Kajima Corporation jointly developed a methane fermentation system using shochu distillation residue, a byproduct of shochu production. The technology converts 70% of the shochu distillation residue into methane gas and 30% into compost, with the methane gas produced providing approximately 50% of the plant's overall heat energy needs. The composted residues were used for local agriculture, helping to improve the fertility of the farmland. This initiative set a new standard for waste management in the shochu production industry and attracted attention as a model case for complying with the ban on ocean dumping that was scheduled to take effect in 2001.
Progress in the 2000s
In 2003, Kirishima Shuzo started operation of a methane fermentation treatment plant for shochu dregs, but at first the process was not stable, and shochu production had to be temporarily suspended. After much research with Kajima Corporation, a new plant was installed in 2006, and it is now capable of stably processing approximately 650 tons of shochu dregs per day. The biogas produced is used as fuel for the plant, contributing to an annual reduction of approximately 3,000 tons of CO
Development in the 2010s
In 2012, with the start of the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) program for renewable energy, Kirishima Shuzo installed power generation equipment to utilize surplus biogas. 2014 saw the start of "sweet potato power generation," producing approximately 7 million kWh of electricity per year (enough for approximately 2000 households). Through the sale of electricity to Kyushu Electric Power Company, the company successfully generated annual revenues of approximately 200 million yen. In addition, compost extracted from shochu dregs is increasingly being used in local agriculture, contributing greatly to the fertility of farmland.
Furthermore, Kirishima Shuzo promoted the upgrading of its composting equipment and energy recovery system in order to improve the efficiency of the manufacturing process and reduce environmental impact. As a result, the company has established a system in which the majority of energy used throughout the plant is generated in-house.
Initiatives for the 2020s
In the 2020s, all plants will process approximately 850 tons of shochu dregs per day, generating approximately 34,000 cubic meters of biogas. This amount is equivalent to the energy needed to power approximately 22,000 households. At the Head Office Expansion Plant and the Shihida No. 2 Expansion Plant, 60% of the annual fuel consumption is covered by biogas, resulting in an annual reduction of approximately 4,500 tons of CO₂. Part of the biogas produced is used to generate electricity, which is then supplied to each household.
In 2023, the Kirishima Sweet Potato Seed and Seedling Production Center "Imo Terrace" will be in operation, supplying healthy seedlings to 1,200 registered farmers. We are evolving as a "recycling-oriented company" that completes the entire process from raw material production to waste recycling.
Summary
Kirishima Shuzo's efforts to effectively utilize waste and reduce the environmental impact of shochu production have made a significant contribution to the sustainability of the local community. This history is widely regarded as a pioneering example that can serve as a model for other companies seeking to transition to a recycling-oriented society.
宮崎県都城市における焼酎蒸留かすリサイクルの歩み - 1997年9月
宮崎県都城市における焼酎蒸留かすリサイクルの歩み - 1997年9月
1997年、宮崎県都城市の霧島酒造と鹿島建設は、焼酎製造の副産物である焼酎蒸留かすを利用したメタン発酵システムを共同開発しました。この技術では、焼酎かすの70％をメタンガス、30％を堆肥に変換し、生成されたメタンガスは工場全体の熱エネルギー需要の約50％を賄いました。堆肥化された残留物は地元農業に利用され、農地の肥沃化を促進しました。この取り組みは、焼酎製造業界における廃棄物管理の新たな基準となり、2001年から予定されていた海洋投棄禁止にも対応するモデルケースとして注目を集めました。
2000年代の進展
2003年、霧島酒造は焼酎かすのメタン発酵処理プラントを稼働させましたが、当初は処理が安定せず、焼酎製造の一時停止も発生しました。鹿島建設とともに研究を重ねた結果、2006年に新たなプラントを導入し、1日約650トンの焼酎かすを安定的に処理できるようになりました。生成されたバイオガスは工場の燃料に利用され、年間約3000トンのCO₂削減に寄与しました。
2010年代の発展
2012年、再生可能エネルギーの固定価格買取制度（FIT）の開始を契機に、霧島酒造は余剰バイオガスを活用する発電設備を導入しました。2014年に「サツマイモ発電」を開始し、年間約700万kWh（約2000世帯分）の電力を生産。九州電力への売電を通じて年間約2億円の収益を得ることに成功しました。また、焼酎かすから抽出された堆肥は地域農業での利用が進み、農地の肥沃化に大きく貢献しています。
さらに、霧島酒造は製造プロセスの効率化と環境負荷低減に向けて、堆肥化装置やエネルギー回収システムの高度化を推進しました。これにより、工場全体で使用するエネルギーの大半を自家生成エネルギーでまかなう体制を構築しました。
2020年代の取り組み
2020年代には、全工場で1日約850トンの焼酎かすを処理し、約34000立方メートルのバイオガスを生成。この量は約22000世帯分のエネルギーに相当します。本社増設工場と志比田第二増設工場では、年間使用燃料の60％をバイオガスで賄い、年間約4500トンのCO₂削減を達成。生成されたバイオガスの一部は発電に利用され、電力を各家庭に供給しています。
2023年には、「霧島さつまいも種苗生産センター『イモテラス』」を稼働し、登録農家1200戸に健全な苗を供給。原料生産から廃棄物リサイクルまでを完結する「循環型企業」としての進化を遂げています。
総括
霧島酒造の取り組みは、焼酎製造における廃棄物の有効活用と環境負荷の低減を実現し、地域社会の持続可能性に大きく貢献しています。この歴史は、循環型社会への移行を目指す他企業にとっても模範となる先駆的な事例として広く評価されています。
1997年、宮崎県都城市の霧島酒造と鹿島建設は、焼酎製造の副産物である焼酎蒸留かすを利用したメタン発酵システムを共同開発しました。この技術では、焼酎かすの70％をメタンガス、30％を堆肥に変換し、生成されたメタンガスは工場全体の熱エネルギー需要の約50％を賄いました。堆肥化された残留物は地元農業に利用され、農地の肥沃化を促進しました。この取り組みは、焼酎製造業界における廃棄物管理の新たな基準となり、2001年から予定されていた海洋投棄禁止にも対応するモデルケースとして注目を集めました。
2000年代の進展
2003年、霧島酒造は焼酎かすのメタン発酵処理プラントを稼働させましたが、当初は処理が安定せず、焼酎製造の一時停止も発生しました。鹿島建設とともに研究を重ねた結果、2006年に新たなプラントを導入し、1日約650トンの焼酎かすを安定的に処理できるようになりました。生成されたバイオガスは工場の燃料に利用され、年間約3000トンのCO₂削減に寄与しました。
2010年代の発展
2012年、再生可能エネルギーの固定価格買取制度（FIT）の開始を契機に、霧島酒造は余剰バイオガスを活用する発電設備を導入しました。2014年に「サツマイモ発電」を開始し、年間約700万kWh（約2000世帯分）の電力を生産。九州電力への売電を通じて年間約2億円の収益を得ることに成功しました。また、焼酎かすから抽出された堆肥は地域農業での利用が進み、農地の肥沃化に大きく貢献しています。
さらに、霧島酒造は製造プロセスの効率化と環境負荷低減に向けて、堆肥化装置やエネルギー回収システムの高度化を推進しました。これにより、工場全体で使用するエネルギーの大半を自家生成エネルギーでまかなう体制を構築しました。
2020年代の取り組み
2020年代には、全工場で1日約850トンの焼酎かすを処理し、約34000立方メートルのバイオガスを生成。この量は約22000世帯分のエネルギーに相当します。本社増設工場と志比田第二増設工場では、年間使用燃料の60％をバイオガスで賄い、年間約4500トンのCO₂削減を達成。生成されたバイオガスの一部は発電に利用され、電力を各家庭に供給しています。
2023年には、「霧島さつまいも種苗生産センター『イモテラス』」を稼働し、登録農家1200戸に健全な苗を供給。原料生産から廃棄物リサイクルまでを完結する「循環型企業」としての進化を遂げています。
総括
霧島酒造の取り組みは、焼酎製造における廃棄物の有効活用と環境負荷の低減を実現し、地域社会の持続可能性に大きく貢献しています。この歴史は、循環型社会への移行を目指す他企業にとっても模範となる先駆的な事例として広く評価されています。
A City Trapped in a Thermal Cage--Heat Islands and the Agony of Architects (May 2004)
A City Trapped in a Thermal Cage--Heat Islands and the Agony of Architects (May 2004)
The 2004 roundtable discussion on the urban environment, "The Housing Architecture Debate in the Heat Island," was a debate among architects, environmentalists, and government officials on how to respond to the rapidly worsening phenomenon of urban warming, or heat island effect, from their respective perspectives.
At the time, Tokyo and other large cities were experiencing "urban heat islanding," a phenomenon in which not only daytime temperatures rise but also nighttime temperatures cannot be expected to fall, and air conditioner use had become the norm, causing household electricity consumption to soar. This has led to questions about the sustainability of the power supply system and urban life, and the Ministry of the Environment and various local governments have been vocal about the need for mitigation measures.
The first to speak at this roundtable discussion was an architect. He argued that "improvements at the level of individual housing are the closest environmental measures that citizens can take." He said that building with natural materials, such as the use of insulation, airy floor plans, and rooftop greenery, would achieve both living comfort and environmental friendliness. In contrast, the environmentalist emphasized the need for a master plan that looks at the entire urban structure, saying that "individual housing improvements alone cannot change the heat flow in an entire city. He considered the fact that densely populated residential areas have been left unimproved as a contributing factor to heat islands, and argued that the "absence of urban planning" is the root of the problem.
In this discussion of individual versus city and micro versus macro, the government official's remarks were tinged with the color of a coordinator. He stated, "Citizen approval is essential to make it mandatory through ordinances and regulations." He also took a cautious stance on rooftop greening, for example, saying that although there are incentives available through subsidy programs, social consensus is needed to make it mandatory. In fact, although some municipalities were offering greening subsidies, the low utilization rate indicated the difficulty in gaining public understanding.
The three parties' statements sometimes intersected and sometimes ran parallel. Architects said that "sustainable improvements cannot take root at the expense of comfort," while environmentalists countered that "reliance on air conditioning and artificial cooling accelerates global warming as a result. The government interceded, "It is precisely in order to get closer to the citizens that we should start with the mechanism. This conversation was not merely a technical discussion, but encompassed the question, "Who will envision the future of the city?
This debate vividly illuminated the dilemma facing Japanese society in the early 2000s: the dichotomy between "urban sustainability" and "civic comfort. The heat island phenomenon is not merely a weather phenomenon, but also a mirror that reveals the relationship between cities and people, and this roundtable discussion provided an opportunity to reexamine the nature of this phenomenon.
The 2004 roundtable discussion on the urban environment, "The Housing Architecture Debate in the Heat Island," was a debate among architects, environmentalists, and government officials on how to respond to the rapidly worsening phenomenon of urban warming, or heat island effect, from their respective perspectives.
At the time, Tokyo and other large cities were experiencing "urban heat islanding," a phenomenon in which not only daytime temperatures rise but also nighttime temperatures cannot be expected to fall, and air conditioner use had become the norm, causing household electricity consumption to soar. This has led to questions about the sustainability of the power supply system and urban life, and the Ministry of the Environment and various local governments have been vocal about the need for mitigation measures.
The first to speak at this roundtable discussion was an architect. He argued that "improvements at the level of individual housing are the closest environmental measures that citizens can take." He said that building with natural materials, such as the use of insulation, airy floor plans, and rooftop greenery, would achieve both living comfort and environmental friendliness. In contrast, the environmentalist emphasized the need for a master plan that looks at the entire urban structure, saying that "individual housing improvements alone cannot change the heat flow in an entire city. He considered the fact that densely populated residential areas have been left unimproved as a contributing factor to heat islands, and argued that the "absence of urban planning" is the root of the problem.
In this discussion of individual versus city and micro versus macro, the government official's remarks were tinged with the color of a coordinator. He stated, "Citizen approval is essential to make it mandatory through ordinances and regulations." He also took a cautious stance on rooftop greening, for example, saying that although there are incentives available through subsidy programs, social consensus is needed to make it mandatory. In fact, although some municipalities were offering greening subsidies, the low utilization rate indicated the difficulty in gaining public understanding.
The three parties' statements sometimes intersected and sometimes ran parallel. Architects said that "sustainable improvements cannot take root at the expense of comfort," while environmentalists countered that "reliance on air conditioning and artificial cooling accelerates global warming as a result. The government interceded, "It is precisely in order to get closer to the citizens that we should start with the mechanism. This conversation was not merely a technical discussion, but encompassed the question, "Who will envision the future of the city?
This debate vividly illuminated the dilemma facing Japanese society in the early 2000s: the dichotomy between "urban sustainability" and "civic comfort. The heat island phenomenon is not merely a weather phenomenon, but also a mirror that reveals the relationship between cities and people, and this roundtable discussion provided an opportunity to reexamine the nature of this phenomenon.
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