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History of the Illegal Dumping of FRP Wrecked Vessels - From 1994 to the 2020s In 1994, the problem of illegally dumped FRP (fiberglass-reinforced plastic) wrecked vessels became severe along coastlines and in ports nationwide. A nationwide survey found that 40% of the 1,573 confirmed wrecked vessels were FRP boats. Due to their high durability, they did not biodegrade, raising concerns about long-term environmental impacts. Particularly, fishing industry stakeholders and marine environmental protection groups pointed out the deterioration of scenery and the impact on fishing grounds. In response to this situation, the Japan Coast Guard announced a policy in 1996 to strengthen enforcement against the illegal dumping of FRP vessels, introducing measures such as affixing warning stickers, providing guidance on proper disposal, and applying penalties.

Entering the 2000s, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) and the Ministry of the Environment (MOE) promoted measures for the proper disposal of FRP vessels, advancing the development of recycling technologies. In November 2005, the Japan Marine Industries Association (JBIA) commenced operation of the "FRP Vessel Recycling System," facilitating the processing of FRP waste vessels, including their conversion into cement raw materials. However, illegal dumping remained a significant problem due to high disposal costs. According to a 2003 report by the Ministry of the Environment, approximately 78% of the 884 newly confirmed illegally dumped vessels were FRP boats, and 93% of the pleasure boats involved were made of FRP.

By the 2020s, the FRP boat recycling system was operating continuously, with regular collection points established in each region. Recycling technology using cement kilns became the standard method for proper FRP boat disposal and received official government recognition. Furthermore, information on FRP boat disposal methods became more widely available, enabling owners to arrange proper disposal through "registered dealers" within the FRP Boat Recycling System.