No. 84 - Environmental Technology - Summary - July 2001

No. 84 - Environmental Technology - Summary - July 2001

1. heat pumps utilizing unused energy
Heat pumps that utilize geothermal heat are attracting attention as an example of unused energy. Because geothermal heat maintains a stable temperature throughout the year, it has high energy efficiency and is suitable for applications such as air conditioning and hot water supply. Geothermal heat pumps are expected to contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions and reduce environmental impact. This technology is also expected to grow as a new segment of the energy market.

2. gypsum board recycling
Gypsum board recycling is being promoted. In Japan, approximately 4.7 million tons of gypsum board is produced annually, and attempts are underway to reuse the waste and demolition materials. Separation and demolition of waste materials is required, and proper disposal at construction sites is critical. Improving the quality of recycled gypsum and developing new applications for it are also issues.

3. cleanup of diesel exhaust gas
Measures are being taken to clean diesel exhaust gas. Particular emphasis is being placed on the elimination of illicit diesel fuel, and the development of technologies to reduce toxic substances emitted from diesel engines is underway. This is expected to significantly reduce emissions of substances that cause air pollution.

4. compliance with environmental laws and regulations
How to deal with environmental laws and regulations is under discussion. In particular, companies are expected to respond appropriately to laws and regulations such as the Offensive Odor Control Law. This will reduce the environmental burden and promote efforts to realize a sustainable society.

5. creation of a recycling-oriented society
Efforts are underway to form a recycling-oriented society. The promotion of effective use of resources and recycling has been emphasized, and policies have been introduced to reduce the final disposal volume of waste. In particular, there is a need to develop technologies to improve the recycling rate of industrial waste.

6. introduction of an industrial waste tax
Mie Prefecture introduced the nation's first industrial waste tax. This tax is levied on waste for final disposal and is intended to promote recycling and prevent illegal dumping. This tax is expected to curb waste emissions and promote recycling.

7. solar power introduction targets
Targets have been set for the introduction of photovoltaic power generation, and new technologies in the energy field are being introduced. In particular, low-emission vehicles and energy-efficient housing are becoming increasingly popular, and policies are being implemented to reduce the environmental burden.

8. environmentally friendly corporate behavior
The Ministry of the Environment (MOE) has surveyed the environmental conservation activities of companies and reported progress in environmentally friendly corporate behavior. Corporate disclosure of environmental information and introduction of environmental management systems are progressing, and environmental initiatives are expanding.

9. recycling of textile products
Recycling of textile products is being promoted, but the use of recycled products is limited due to the wide variety of materials used. Therefore, the entire industry is required to create products that are easy to recycle.

10. expansion of nuclear power plants as a measure against global warming
The expansion of nuclear power plants has been proposed as a measure to combat global warming. In particular, expanding the use of nuclear power plants is considered necessary to achieve the goal of reducing CO2 emissions, but there is opposition from local residents, and debate continues.