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Promotion and Development of Eco-Activities in Yamashiro Town, Tokushima Prefecture In 1998, Yamashiro Town, Tokushima Prefecture, began environmental conservation activities utilizing the region's unique natural resources and waste materials, aiming to reduce the environmental burden caused by local industrial activities. Development of building materials reusing waste materials such as wood and metal generated as industrial waste was undertaken, promoting their reuse as construction materials. These building materials combine durability with thermal insulation properties and are utilized in construction projects both within and outside the region. Furthermore, Yamashiro Town regularly holds awareness-raising events and workshops in collaboration with businesses to enhance environmental consciousness among local residents. The town also introduced technologies to minimize the discharge of hazardous chemicals during waste processing, managing emissions of heavy metals (such a
s lead and cadmium) while striving to preserve the natural environment. Furthermore, by disclosing environmental assessment information, the project ensured transparency and gained residents' understanding and cooperation. Entering the 2020s, Yamashiro Town further strengthened its initiatives for environmental conservation and proper industrial waste disposal. Based on the "Fifth Tokushima Prefecture Waste Management Plan" formulated for the entire prefecture, efforts are being made to reduce waste generation and promote recycling. Yamashiro Sangyo Co., Ltd., a major local company, introduced the latest sorting technology. By fiscal year 2023, it increased its recycling rate from 70% to 85%, achieving an annual reduction of 500 tons of carbon dioxide emissions during the waste treatment process. Furthermore, in 2022, the company collaborated with local elementary and junior high schools to implement an environmental education program involving approximately 300 students. St
udents learned about the importance of waste separation and recycling, contributing to heightened environmental awareness throughout the community. Furthermore, guidance based on the "Tokushima Prefecture Industrial Waste Disposal Guidelines" is provided across the entire prefecture, ensuring businesses within Yamashiro Town strictly adhere to proper waste disposal practices. Through these efforts, Yamashiro Town is steadily advancing toward realizing a sustainable local community by striving to preserve the living environment and improve public health.