Deforestation and Restoration in the Amazon and Indonesia - Status in the 2020s (October 2020)

Deforestation and Restoration in the Amazon and Indonesia - Status in the 2020s (October 2020)

Even in the 2020s, deforestation remains a serious issue. In particular, the Amazon rainforest in Brazil, the world's largest carbon sink, continues to lose around 12 million hectares of forest annually due to illegal logging and agricultural expansion. According to 2021 statistics, the rate of deforestation in the Amazon is accelerating, releasing about 110 million tons of CO2 into the atmosphere each year. The main causes are agricultural expansion for beef and soy production, with international companies like JBS and Cargill involved.

Meanwhile, deforestation also continues in Indonesia. In Sumatra and Kalimantan islands, more than 96,000 hectares of forest were lost in 2020 due to the expansion of palm oil plantations. In response, the Indonesian government strengthened its crackdown on illegal logging in 2021, and companies like Golden Agri-Resources and Wilmar International have started introducing sustainable agricultural practices.

However, as deforestation progresses, climate change accelerates, with average global temperatures expected to rise by about 1.2°C from pre-industrial levels during the 2020s. As a result, the risk of natural disasters is increasing worldwide. For example, in British Columbia, Canada, forest fires increased, burning more than 100,000 hectares in 2021. The primary causes of these fires are drying and high temperatures due to climate change, making forest restoration efforts urgent.

International efforts to restore forests are also being strengthened. Large corporations like Tesla and Apple are funding forest restoration projects with the goal of achieving carbon neutrality. Additionally, the Amazon Fund was re-launched in 2020 to support reforestation projects within Brazil. Similarly, European countries have set a goal of restoring 300 million hectares of forest by 2030 as part of the EU's Green Deal.

Deforestation is not only an environmental issue but also an economic one. According to UN estimates, the economic losses due to deforestation amount to $200 billion annually, making sustainable forest management and restoration an urgent priority.

Environmental Destruction by Sinopec (China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation) - Detailed Analysis

Environmental Destruction by Sinopec (China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation) - Detailed Analysis

1. Emission of Pollutants in Guangdong and Jiangsu Provinces
Sinopec (China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation) operates numerous oil refineries and chemical plants in Guangdong and Jiangsu provinces, where harmful pollutants are released during the refining of petroleum and chemical products. For instance, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene and toluene are emitted into the air, and heavy metals (lead, cadmium) are illegally dumped into rivers. In the Pearl River basin of Guangdong, water quality has deteriorated significantly, leading to severe contamination of drinking water sources. Such environmental pollution has negatively impacted the health of residents and local agriculture and fisheries.

2. Oil Spill Incident in Dalian City (2011)
In 2011, a major oil spill occurred at Sinopec's Dalian oil storage facility. Tens of thousands of tons of crude oil spilled into the Bohai Bay, causing devastating damage to the marine ecosystem. The oil spill wiped out coastal fisheries, causing significant economic losses to fishermen. Additionally, many marine species, including birds and fish, died as a result of the spill, and the environmental impact is expected to last for years. Sinopec was fined approximately $10 million (around 1.1 billion yen) for this incident, but doubts remain about the adequacy of the preventive measures implemented afterward.

3. Air Pollution in Tianjin
Sinopec operates a large oil refinery in Tianjin City, where significant amounts of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) are emitted annually. In 2019, reports indicated that the refinery released approximately 500,000 tons of SO2, contributing to frequent acid rain in the surrounding urban areas. This has caused considerable damage to infrastructure (bridges and buildings), forests, and crops in Tianjin. Additionally, air pollution has been linked to an increased risk of respiratory diseases and heart problems, significantly affecting the health of local residents.

4. Illegal Disposal of Toxic Waste at Nanjing Iron & Steel Co.
Sinopec-affiliated Nanjing Iron & Steel Co. was found to have improperly disposed of toxic slag (a byproduct of steel production) by illegally dumping it into landfills and farmland. The slag contains heavy metals (chromium and nickel), which have seeped into the soil and groundwater, contaminating local crops and water sources. A 2018 survey revealed that crop yields in certain agricultural areas around Nanjing were reduced to less than 40% of normal levels due to heavy metal contamination. The Nanjing municipal government fined the company 30 million yuan (approximately 500 million yen) and issued orders for corrective action, but the pollution problem persists.

Conclusion
Sinopec, as China's largest petrochemical company, has been responsible for numerous instances of environmental destruction. Notable cases include river and soil pollution in Guangdong and Jiangsu provinces, the Dalian oil spill, and air pollution in Tianjin. These environmental issues have severely impacted the health of residents and ecosystems. Although the Chinese government has imposed fines and ordered plant closures, many challenges remain. Moving forward, it is crucial that the company takes greater responsibility and implements sustainable operations.

The top 10 Most Polluted Regions in the world - Current Status in the 2020s

The 10 Most Polluted Regions - Current Status in the 2020s

As of the 2020s, the situation in the most polluted regions remains critical. Below are details on some of the most affected areas:

Vapi, India
The problem of industrial waste management in Vapi remains unresolved, with lead, cadmium, and hexavalent chromium continuing to pollute water sources. Chemical plants still discharge harmful substances, and health issues among residents are on the rise. Studies in the 2020s show pollutant levels exceeding permissible limits by tens of times, leading to a high incidence of cancer and skin diseases.

Chelyabinsk, Russia
The nuclear contamination in Chelyabinsk remains unresolved. Radioactive substances like cesium-137 and strontium-90 continue to contaminate the soil and groundwater. Reports from the 2020s show that residents' radiation exposure levels remain high, posing long-term health risks.

La Oroya, Peru
The metal smelter owned by the U.S. company Doe Run continues to emit lead and arsenic into the air in the 2020s. Blood lead levels in local residents remain high, especially among children, who suffer from severe health issues. A 2020 report found that about 90% of children suffer from lead poisoning.

Tianjin, China
Rapid industrialization in Tianjin continues in the 2020s, and sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides remain major pollutants. Despite government efforts to curb pollution, PM2.5 levels remain high, causing an increase in respiratory diseases among the population.

Kabwe, Zambia
Kabwe's lead contamination remains critical. Soil lead levels remain extremely high, and in the 2020s, blood lead levels in residents are far above the safety limit. Children are particularly affected, suffering from neurological disorders and behavioral issues.

Hazaribagh, Bangladesh
Hazaribagh remains a hub of leather industry pollution, where chromium and other harmful chemicals continue to be discharged into rivers without proper treatment. Hexavalent chromium, a known carcinogen, is causing skin diseases and respiratory illnesses among residents. Reports from 2020 show water contamination levels hundreds of times above safe limits, with significant health impacts on the population.

Ogoniland, Nigeria
Oil spills in Ogoniland remain a serious issue in the 2020s, with oil companies like Shell continuing to contribute to soil and water contamination. Recovery of the area is expected to take decades, with drinking water contamination and associated health issues such as respiratory and skin diseases becoming more prevalent.

Citarum River, Indonesia
The Citarum River is still one of the most polluted rivers in the world in the 2020s. Textile industry wastewater containing lead and cadmium continues to flow into the river, contaminating drinking water. The levels of hazardous chemicals exceed WHO safety standards by several hundred times, and the pollution affects local agriculture and the food chain.

Agbogbloshie, Ghana
Agbogbloshie remains one of the largest e-waste dumping sites in the world, and the situation has not improved in the 2020s. Electronic waste from Western countries is illegally dumped here and burned, releasing harmful substances like lead and mercury into the air and soil. Local workers, many of whom are children, are exposed to severe health risks, with respiratory diseases and cancer rates increasing.

Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City continues to struggle with severe air pollution in the 2020s. Major pollutants include nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) from vehicle emissions and factories. PM2.5 levels often reach dangerous levels, particularly during the dry season, and the pollution significantly impacts respiratory and cardiovascular health. Although the government is strengthening environmental measures, the high population and dependency on automobiles make a complete resolution difficult.

The 10 Most Polluted Regions in the world - October 2007

The 10 Most Polluted Regions - October 2007

A report by the U.S.-based environmental NGO, the Blacksmith Institute, identified the 10 most polluted regions in the world. These include Vapi in India, Chelyabinsk in Russia, La Oroya in Peru, Tianjin in China, and Kabwe in Zambia. These regions are heavily contaminated with lead, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, arsenic, sulfur dioxide, and other harmful substances, leading to severe cases of lead poisoning and lung disease.

1. **Vapi, India**
Vapi is severely affected by industrial waste mismanagement, especially the discharge of chemicals such as lead, cadmium, and hexavalent chromium from chemical plants into rivers and groundwater. This has resulted in widespread skin diseases and cancer among local residents.

2. **Chelyabinsk, Russia**
Chelyabinsk, a heavy industrial area dating back to the Soviet Union era, suffers from severe radioactive contamination due to nuclear facilities. Radioactive substances such as cesium-137 and strontium-90 have accumulated in the soil and water, affecting the health of residents for decades.

3. **La Oroya, Peru**
La Oroya, home to a metal smelter owned by the U.S. company Doe Run, is heavily polluted with lead and arsenic released into the atmosphere. Inadequate environmental measures over the years have resulted in high blood lead levels in local residents, particularly children, who suffer from neurological damage and developmental issues.

4. **Tianjin, China**
Rapid industrialization in Tianjin has caused severe air pollution, with sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides being the primary pollutants. Chemical factory emissions are responsible for widespread asthma and lung diseases. Despite efforts by the Chinese government to address the issue, the dense population has made it difficult to control the pollution's far-reaching effects.

5. **Kabwe, Zambia**
Kabwe is plagued by lead contamination from mining activities. The soil and water near lead mines contain dangerously high levels of lead, and local residents, particularly children, suffer from severe neurological conditions due to the elevated lead levels in their blood.

In total, approximately 12 million people in these regions are at risk of lead poisoning, respiratory diseases, developmental issues, and more. While governments and international organizations are working to address the situation, the lack of funding, technological capacity, and delayed corporate environmental initiatives continue to exacerbate the problem.

Impact of Organotin on Marine Mammals - October 1998

Impact of Organotin on Marine Mammals - October 1998

Organotin compounds, particularly tributyltin (TBT), have been widely used as antifouling paints for ships, causing significant impacts on marine life. The pollution in major sea routes, such as the North Sea and the Mediterranean, is particularly severe, affecting marine mammals such as dolphins and seals in these areas. TBT remains in water for decades, and due to biomagnification through the food chain, it accumulates in high concentrations in top predators like marine mammals.

Studies have shown that even at low concentrations of 10 nanograms per liter, TBT significantly suppresses the immune system of dolphins, making them more susceptible to infections. In the Mediterranean coastal areas, TBT pollution has been linked to a significant decline in seal populations.

In Japan, TBT contamination in Tokyo Bay and the Seto Inland Sea is also a serious issue, impacting fisheries. Major chemical companies in Japan, such as Sumitomo Chemical and Mitsui Chemicals, have been involved in the production of organotin compounds and are now facing stricter regulations. In the late 1990s, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) proposed a phase-out of TBT, and by 2003, it was completely banned. However, the environmental impact of TBT persists.

The study's most notable finding is that even at low concentrations, TBT can have fatal effects on marine mammals, highlighting the urgent need for continued regulatory measures.

Russia's Marine Dumping of Radioactive Waste - August 1994

Russia's Marine Dumping of Radioactive Waste - August 1994

In 1993, it was revealed that Russia had dumped radioactive waste into the Sea of Japan, attracting international attention. This dumping occurred during the post-Soviet Union period of confusion, when nuclear-related waste from former Soviet facilities was directly disposed of in the Sea of Japan. The waste mainly came from nuclear submarines and military facilities, containing high-level radioactive materials.

The unique aspects of this incident are as follows:

1. Intentional dumping of radioactive waste into the ocean: While the Soviet Union commonly dumped radioactive waste into the ocean during the Cold War, doing so amidst increasing international regulations was unusual. The limited area of the Sea of Japan heightened the risk of direct harm to nearby countries such as Japan and South Korea.

2. Scale of the dumping and concealment: The Russian government concealed the precise amount and nature of the dumped waste for a long time, denying the issue until it was revealed. Investigations later uncovered that large quantities of waste had been dumped into the Sea of Japan multiple times.

3. International diplomatic issue: The dumping caused diplomatic tension between Russia and the international community, including Japan. Japan strongly protested, and the issue was raised at international conferences on marine pollution. Under international pressure, Russia was forced to investigate and eventually pledged to halt further dumping.

4. Technological problems and delayed response: After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia faced economic difficulties, and lacked proper waste disposal facilities. This led to the extreme decision of dumping military-related radioactive waste into the ocean. This incident highlighted severe challenges in international nuclear waste management and prompted a reevaluation of international cooperation frameworks.

This incident remains a unique example of post-Cold War Russia's internal struggles and an international environmental issue, which pushed for stricter global environmental regulations.

Glacier Melting and Climate Change

Glacier Melting and Climate Change

In the 2020s, glacier melting in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau has accelerated due to climate change. Particularly, glaciers in the Kunlun Mountains are melting at a rate of about 7% annually, severely affecting the Yellow River's water source. Agricultural and industrial areas in the Yellow River basin rely on this water source, leading to frequent droughts and water shortages. In cities like Lanzhou and Zhengzhou, unstable water supplies have become a significant issue. Additionally, the melting glaciers increase the risk of releasing methane and carbon dioxide, exacerbating climate change. In response, State Grid Corporation is promoting the adoption of renewable energy, but long-term measures are needed to restore the glaciers.

Drought in the Yellow River Basin

Drought in the Yellow River Basin

In the 2020s, drought in the Yellow River basin has worsened, particularly affecting urban areas like Zhengzhou and Lanzhou, where water supply has become unstable. The Yellow River supplies water to about 12% of China's population and is a crucial resource for agriculture and industry. However, due to climate change and excessive irrigation, water flow has significantly decreased. An annual water shortage of 3 billion cubic meters has been reported, impacting crop production. The government has attempted to regulate water flow using the Three Gorges Dam and Xiaolangdi Dam, but these measures have not been sufficiently effective. Additionally, State Grid Corporation of China is working to improve the efficiency of hydropower, but further technological innovation is needed. Industrial wastewater pollution has also exacerbated the issue, making sustainable water management critical.

103-Environmental Destruction Summary-February 2003

103-Environmental Destruction Summary-February 2003

1. Introduction of Forest Environment Tax (Kochi Prefecture, February 2003)
Kochi Prefecture, where 84% of the area is forested, faces significant issues due to the decline of forestry, such as lack of thinning, leading to a decrease in water retention capacity and soil erosion. To address this, the prefecture introduced a forest environment tax, adding 500 yen to the resident tax to promote forest conservation and water resource protection. In particular, utilizing biomass technology by using thinned wood is expected to help restore the forest's water retention capacity and improve river environments. The introduction of the forest environment tax is also being considered in Kanagawa and Okayama Prefectures.

2. Restoration of Ecosystems and Water Source Purification (Terraced Rice Fields, February 2003)
Terraced rice fields, due to their characteristics, have a water retention capacity comparable to that of dams and play a crucial role in water source conservation. However, the management of these fields has been neglected due to changes in agricultural policies, leading to a decline in water retention capacity. By promoting the preservation and utilization of terraced rice fields, it is expected to contribute to preventing water pollution and reduce the contamination of water and soil caused by pesticides and chemical fertilizers. The preservation of terraced rice fields is also an important initiative for local water source protection.

3. Impact of Invasive Species on Ecosystems (February 2003)
The cultivation of invasive species in Japan has adversely affected ecosystems. In particular, the cultivation of non-native crops threatens local vegetation and biodiversity. In response, the government has strengthened import regulations on invasive species and is promoting biomass technology and sustainable agriculture as part of its efforts. By introducing material circulation systems, both ecosystem protection and regional economic revitalization can be achieved.

4. Decrease in Water Retention Capacity Due to Deforestation (February 2003)
Globally, 9.04 million hectares of forests are being logged annually, particularly in Southeast Asia and African countries, where rapid development is progressing. This has led to the loss of forests' water retention capacity, resulting in environmental problems such as floods and droughts. In Japan, deforestation due to dam construction is also progressing, and water conservation has become a challenge. Forest regeneration is urgently needed to improve water quality.

5. Excessive Groundwater Consumption and Land Subsidence (Tokyo, Osaka, February 2003)
In Tokyo and Osaka, excessive groundwater use is causing land subsidence. Over-extraction of groundwater for industrial and agricultural purposes has hindered groundwater recharge, leading to subsidence. Additionally, irrigation has caused salinization, and sustainable groundwater management is urgently needed.

6. Water Shortages and International Conflicts (Africa, February 2003)
By 2025, it is predicted that about half of the world's population will face water shortages, and approximately 500 million people, particularly in Africa and the Middle East, are already struggling to secure safe drinking water. Water resources are becoming a source of international conflict, and Japan is expected to contribute through technical assistance to help resolve these issues.

7. Efficient Use of Agricultural Water (February 2003)
Agriculture accounts for about two-thirds of the world's water consumption, and improving its efficiency is a key issue. In countries like the United States and China, where large-scale agriculture is prevalent, efforts are underway to introduce water-saving technologies. Alongside the efficient use of water, it is also essential to develop technologies that prevent water pollution caused by pesticides and fertilizers.

8. Water Conflicts Between Urban and Rural Areas (February 2003)
As industrialization progresses, conflicts over water resources between urban and rural areas have intensified. In many cases, increased water demand in urban areas leads to the depletion of rural water sources, creating social problems. Improving water resource management is urgently required.

9. Importance of Japan's Water Environment Technology (Developing Countries, February 2003)
Japan's water environment technology plays a crucial role in developing countries experiencing rapid industrialization. Technologies for wastewater treatment and rainwater utilization are particularly valuable in reducing environmental burdens while supporting economic growth. The international deployment of Japan's water environment technology is expected to gain attention, especially in Asia and Africa.

10. Deforestation and Loss of Biodiversity (February 2003)
About 9.04 million hectares of forest are lost annually, especially in the Amazon and Southeast Asia, leading to the rapid disappearance of habitats for various species. This disrupts the balance of ecosystems and is expected to negatively impact both the local environment and economy in the long run.

Issue 51 - Environmental Destruction Summary - October 1998

Issue 51 - Environmental Destruction Summary - October 1998

Dam Construction Plan in the Habitat of Blakiston's Fish Owl
In an area of northern Hokkaido where the rare raptor Blakiston's Fish Owl inhabits, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Hokkaido Development Bureau are planning to construct a small agricultural dam. This dam construction poses a significant threat to the owl's habitat, raising concerns about the potential disruption of the local ecosystem. The National Environmental Protection Federation has demanded an immediate halt to the project and an urgent survey of the owl's habitat.

Ecological Destruction by the South Asian Mongoose
The South Asian mongoose, introduced as an exotic species to Amami Oshima, has deviated from its original purpose of controlling habu snakes and is preying on rare native species such as the Amami rabbit and the Lidth's jay. This has caused catastrophic damage to the local ecosystem, leading to a sharp decline in the population of these rare species in certain areas. Immediate measures are needed to protect the ecosystem.

Small Incinerators and the Dioxin Issue
Small incinerators operating across the country are efficient in waste disposal, but if not properly managed, they pose a risk of emitting large amounts of dioxins. Particularly in older facilities, cases have been reported where dioxin concentrations exceed environmental standards, potentially causing serious health and environmental impacts. Local governments are currently working on the introduction of new technologies, updating or discontinuing incinerators to address this issue.

Expansion of the Ozone Hole
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency's analysis, the ozone hole over Antarctica in 1998 reached a record size, covering an area of 27.24 million square kilometers. The destruction of the ozone layer leads to an increase in global ultraviolet radiation, adversely affecting human health and causing significant harm to marine and terrestrial ecosystems. In particular, the decline in plankton around Antarctica is impacting the entire food chain, raising concerns about a loss of biodiversity.

9-Environmental Destruction-Summary-April 1995

9-Environmental Destruction-Summary-April 1995

1. Illegal Dumping of FRP Waste Ships
FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) ships have become mainstream in recent years for small fishing boats and pleasure boats, leading to an increase in waste ships. In 1994, about 40% of illegally dumped ships were FRP, raising environmental concerns. Although processing technology for FRP waste ships has advanced, many cases still lack proper treatment, leading to ongoing marine pollution.

2. Soil Contamination and Bioremediation
Soil contamination by trichloroethylene is a growing issue in Japan, with about 5,000 wells affected. Traditional mechanical removal methods are costly and place a heavy burden on small and medium-sized enterprises. As a result, bioremediation using microorganisms is gaining attention as a low-cost solution for environmental cleanup.

3. Challenges in Waste Management
Waste processing volumes in Japan are increasing, especially for industrial waste, which is becoming an urgent issue. The remaining capacity of industrial waste disposal sites is estimated to be only 1.7 years, highlighting the serious shortage of processing facilities. In the future, waste reduction and recycling will be crucial, with an expected increase in demand for incineration processing facilities.

68-Environmental Destruction Summary-March 2000

1. Dioxin Contamination in Rivers
A study by Ehime University revealed that dioxin in the soil adheres to fine particles and flows into rivers. This dioxin is absorbed by aquatic organisms and accumulates in high concentrations through the food chain, posing a serious threat to ecosystems. The study suggests that current environmental standards need to be revised and that countermeasures should be implemented.

2. Ecosystem Changes Due to Deforestation
In Japan, ongoing deforestation is reducing the habitats of wild animals, threatening biodiversity. Deforestation also triggers secondary environmental degradation, such as increased flood risks and soil degradation, which causes significant changes to local ecosystems. This may make it difficult for natural environments to recover.

3. Marine Pollution and Plastic Waste
Plastic waste flowing into the oceans is causing severe harm to marine life. Plastic does not decompose and remains in the sea for long periods, leading to cases where marine organisms mistakenly ingest it, resulting in malnutrition or death. This problem is recognized globally as a serious environmental issue that could lead to the collapse of marine ecosystems.

Seaforest Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery - November 2000

Seaforest Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery

Seaforesting refers to efforts to plant algae and seagrasses underwater to restore marine ecosystems. This initiative aims to improve the habitats of marine life and promote sustainable fisheries and ecosystem conservation in the face of declining fishery resources and deteriorating marine environments.

Efforts in Wakayama Prefecture
The Wakayama Prefectural Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Technology Center is progressing with a project to restore seaweed beds by cultivating "Hondawara" algae. Seaweed beds are crucial habitats where marine life, such as fish, shellfish, and shrimp, spawn and grow. However, overfishing, marine pollution, and the effects of global warming have led to the loss of many seaweed beds.

Role of Hondawara
Hondawara is a type of seaweed that inhabits shallow coastal areas, performing photosynthesis and supplying oxygen. It also absorbs carbon dioxide from the ocean, playing a role in carbon fixation. Planting Hondawara helps restore lost seaweed beds, contributing to carbon cycling in the ocean and enriching coastal ecosystems.

Ecosystem Restoration and Sustainable Fisheries
The seaforesting project is expected to aid the recovery of fishery resources. Restored seaweed beds will attract fish and shellfish back to the area, along with other marine organisms, leading to the revival of a rich ecosystem. This will contribute to the realization of sustainable fisheries.

Technology and Future Prospects
Seaforesting requires techniques to cultivate algae seedlings and plant them underwater. The Wakayama project uses an artificial substrate to secure Hondawara seedlings, allowing them to grow. Advances in such technologies could enable broader-scale restoration of seaweed beds, with nationwide implementation in sight.

Challenges and Outlook
However, seaforesting faces challenges such as seedling loss due to typhoons and strong waves, and poor growth caused by rising seawater temperatures. Overcoming these challenges requires technological development, community cooperation, and long-term management perspectives to achieve sustainable seaweed bed restoration.

Conclusion
Seaforest restoration for ecosystem recovery is a crucial initiative that aims to balance environmental conservation with sustainable resource use. The restoration of seaweed beds not only improves the marine environment but also contributes to the local economy, supporting the construction of a sustainable society for the future.

Expansion of the Ozone Layer Crisis - September 2000

The ozone layer exists in the Earth's stratosphere and plays a crucial role in absorbing harmful ultraviolet radiation (particularly UV-B). However, the ozone layer is being destroyed due to chemical substances released by human activities, such as CFCs and halons. These substances, once released into the atmosphere, reach the stratosphere, where they are broken down by ultraviolet light, releasing chlorine and bromine atoms that trigger a chain reaction that destroys ozone molecules.

As a result, large ozone holes form annually over Antarctica, increasing the amount of ultraviolet radiation reaching the Earth's surface. This increased radiation raises the risk of skin cancer and cataracts and poses threats to plant growth and marine ecosystems. To protect and restore the ozone layer, the "Montreal Protocol" was adopted in 1987, internationally limiting the use of ozone-depleting substances. However, full recovery is still expected to take time.

**Ozone Layer Depletion Status in September 2000**

In September 2000, the ozone layer depletion observed over Antarctica reached an unprecedented scale. During this period, the ozone hole's area extended to 2,918 square kilometers, more than twice the size of the Antarctic continent. An ozone hole refers to a region where the ozone layer becomes extremely thin, significantly increasing the amount of ultraviolet radiation reaching the Earth's surface.

In particular, the amount of ozone depletion observed in September 2000 was recorded at 96.22 million tons, the largest ever. The ongoing depletion of the ozone layer raises significant concerns about its impact on Earth's ecosystems and human health. These include increased incidences of skin cancer and cataracts, disruption of ecological balances, and adverse effects on agricultural production.

The primary cause of the ozone layer depletion during this period was the accumulation of ozone-depleting substances such as CFCs and halons in the atmosphere, which reach the stratosphere and are broken down by ultraviolet light. This breakdown releases chlorine and bromine atoms, triggering a chain reaction that destroys ozone molecules.

While the international community, guided by the 1987 "Montreal Protocol," has been working to reduce ozone-depleting substances, the September 2000 observations indicate that the full recovery of the ozone layer will still take time. It is expected to take several decades, possibly up to 100 years, for the ozone layer to recover fully. Continued strict regulation of CFC emissions and other harmful substances is crucial to protecting the ozone layer.

AIDS, Ebola and Ecosystem Destruction - 1995-06-15

 The emergence and spread of emerging infectious diseases such as AIDS and Ebola hemorrhagic fever are closely linked to the destruction of ecosystems. In particular, the destruction of tropical rainforests is believed to have contributed to the emergence of these viruses. As detailed in Richard Preston's book “Hot Zones,” tropical rainforests have been a reservoir for many unknown viruses, and because the viruses have been isolated in this rich biodiversity, they have had little impact on human communities.

However, rapid deforestation and land development in recent years have upset this natural balance, and viruses that were previously isolated from human society are increasingly infecting humans. The Ebola virus, in particular, is believed to have spread from animals living in tropical rainforests to humans, and the increased contact between animals and humans, the hosts of the virus, has led to outbreaks that have been fatal.

Similarly, the AIDS virus (HIV) is believed to have been introduced into human society from the African rainforest, where it was transmitted from chimpanzees, a type of monkey, to humans, and this transmission route is also believed to have been caused in part by ecological destruction. In Africa, deforestation has reduced wildlife habitats and increased hunting and eating of wild animal meat, which has increased the risk of transmission of the viruses to humans.

These viruses were once in equilibrium in nature, but the destruction of ecosystems has disrupted that equilibrium, allowing viruses to adapt to new environments and invade human communities. This process is triggered by the ongoing destruction of nature on a global scale, which in turn increases the risk of new outbreaks of infectious diseases.

In addition, the destruction of ecosystems alters the habitat of animals that serve as hosts for the virus, forcing them to move closer to human habitats. This can accelerate the spread of the virus and, as in the case of Ebola hemorrhagic fever, cause extensive damage before the infection is confirmed. The Ebola virus, in particular, is highly contagious and has a very high fatality rate, causing a serious humanitarian crisis each time an outbreak occurs.

In conclusion, the emergence of emerging infectious diseases such as AIDS and Ebola is inseparably linked to the destruction of ecosystems, and protection of the natural environment will continue to be essential for the prevention of these diseases. The imbalance of nature increases the likelihood that a series of unknown viruses will affect human society, and this is a major challenge in modern public health.

North Pacific Phytoplankton Decline - August 20, 2002 - 2024

NASA and NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) have reported a decline in phytoplankton in the North Pacific based on data collected over the past 20 years. According to their findings, the quantity of phytoplankton in the North Pacific has decreased by approximately 30%, which could have serious impacts on marine ecosystems and the global environment.

Role of Phytoplankton
Phytoplankton perform photosynthesis, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, and play a crucial role in the marine food chain by serving as food for small zooplankton and fish, thus supporting the entire marine ecosystem. Therefore, a decline in phytoplankton could affect the food supply for marine life and the carbon cycle.

Causes of the Decline
The decline in phytoplankton is believed to be due to several factors, including warming of the ocean surface and reduced nutrient supply. In particular, the increase in sea surface temperatures inhibits the upwelling of nutrients from deeper waters, which is essential for phytoplankton growth.

Impact and Future Challenges
If this decline continues, there is concern about the reduction of fish populations, the collapse of marine ecosystems, and an increase in global carbon dioxide levels. More detailed research and observation are needed, and measures to mitigate global warming are urgently required. International cooperation is also necessary to protect the marine environment.

Current Status of North Pacific Phytoplankton - August 13, 2024

The current status of phytoplankton in the North Pacific continues to be affected by climate change, with the warming of the ocean and a lack of nutrient supply posing serious challenges. Phytoplankton play a critical role in the global carbon cycle, and these changes raise concerns about their impact on marine ecosystems.

Specifically, the quantity of phytoplankton in the North Pacific has decreased by approximately 30% over the past 20 years, and their productivity has declined by 15% to 20%. This decline could also reduce the nutritional value of fish by 10% to 20%. Furthermore, a NASA research team has found that phytoplankton absorb about 24% of the atmospheric carbon dioxide, and their decline could have significant implications for the carbon cycle.

These data are crucial for future climate change measures and sustainable fisheries management.

Verwüstete heimische Wälder: Dezember 2001

Verwüstete heimische Wälder: Dezember 2001

Heimische Wälder in Trümmern

Japans Wälder bedecken etwa 25 Millionen Hektar oder 67 % der Landfläche des Landes. Japan ist ein ressourcenreiches Land, das nach Finnland (76%) und Schweden (68%) den dritthöchsten Anteil von Wäldern an der Gesamtfläche der Industrieländer aufweist.

Allerdings befindet sich die japanische Forstwirtschaft seit mehreren Jahrzehnten am Rande einer Krise. Gründe dafür sind die Aufforstungspolitik der Regierung, die Abhängigkeit von ausländischen Holzimporten, der Niedergang der Bergdörfer und die Verringerung der Zahl der Beschäftigten, die an nationalen Forstprojekten arbeiten.

Während des rasanten Wirtschaftswachstums ab den 1960er Jahren verfolgte die Regierung eine Aufforstungspolitik, um die rasch steigende Nachfrage nach Holz zu befriedigen, indem alte und natürliche Wälder abgeholzt und mit schnell wachsenden Arten (Zedern, Zypressen usw.) aufgeforstet wurden, um sie in Pflanzwälder umzuwandeln. Dies führte jedoch zur Zerstörung natürlicher Wälder, und die Wälder mit einer vielfältigen Vegetation wurden plötzlich in einen einzigen Waldtyp aus Zedern und Zypressen umgewandelt. In den 1960er Jahren wurden jedoch fast 80 % der Wälder im Kahlschlagverfahren gerodet, und es wurden 22 bis 26 Millionen Kubikmeter Holz pro Jahr geschlagen, mehr als die tatsächliche Wachstumsrate, was zur derzeitigen Erschöpfung der nationalen Waldressourcen führte.

In den 1960er Jahren schnellte der Holzpreis in die Höhe, weil die forstwirtschaftliche Produktion mit der rasch steigenden Nachfrage nach Holz nicht Schritt halten konnte, und die Einfuhr von ausländischem Holz, das in der Regel billig ist und in großen Mengen zu einem einheitlichen Preis geliefert werden kann, begann ernsthaft. Dies führte zu einem Einbruch der inländischen Holzpreise und zu Instabilität. 1973 setzte sich das Holzangebot aus 22,89 Millionen Kubikmetern importierter Produkte, 52,49 Millionen Kubikmetern importierten Rundholzes und 42,21 Millionen Kubikmetern inländischem Schnittholz zusammen; 1989 betrug das Angebot 4,807 Millionen Kubikmeter bzw. 35,19 Millionen Kubikmeter. 1999 lag der Selbstversorgungsgrad bei 60,26 Millionen Kubikmetern bzw. 18,78 Millionen Kubikmetern, was einen starken Rückgang bedeutet. Außerdem hat ausländisches Holz einen großen Anteil am Schnittholz- und Sperrholzmarkt, während inländisches Holz hauptsächlich für minderwertige Produkte wie Blumenzwiebeln und Holzspäne verwendet wird.

Parallel zum Niedergang der Forstwirtschaft wurden die Arbeitskräfte auf dem Land von den städtischen Industriearbeitern absorbiert, und die Bevölkerung in den ländlichen Gebieten ging stark zurück. Seit 1978 fördert die Regierung zudem die Einkommenssicherung, die konsequente Verschlankung der Organisationsstrukturen und den Personalabbau gemäß dem "Gesetz über Sondermaßnahmen zur Verbesserung der nationalen Forstbetriebe" und dem "Plan zur Verbesserung der nationalen Forstbetriebe". Die Zahl der Beschäftigten in der staatlichen Forstwirtschaft wurde von 89.000 in der Spitze im Jahr 1964 auf 10.000 am Ende des GJ 2000 reduziert, und auch die Zahl der Forstämter wurde von 2.333 im Jahr 1978 auf 1.256 im Jahr 1997 verringert. Auch die Zahl der Forstämter verringerte sich von 351 im Jahr 1978 auf 264 im Jahr 1997 als Folge von Konsolidierungen und Abschaffungen. Die Zahl der Beschäftigten in der Forstwirtschaft ist von 260.000 im Jahr 1965 auf 140.000 im Jahr 1985 und 70.000 im Jahr 1999 gesunken, und der Bevölkerungsrückgang hat sich fortgesetzt. Hinzu kommt, dass die Zahl der Forstarbeiter immer älter wird.

Vor diesem Hintergrund hat der nationale Forstbetrieb, auf den etwa 30 % der gesamten Waldfläche Japans entfallen, seit der Einführung des speziellen Unternehmensbuchhaltungssystems in der Nachkriegszeit einen eigenständigen Gewinn erwirtschaftet, aber seit dem GJ 1975 ständig rote Zahlen geschrieben. Im GJ 1996 belief sich der Saldo des nationalen Forstwirtschaftskontos auf 301,9 Mrd. Yen für Zinsen und Tilgung langfristiger Schulden, verglichen mit 88,6 Mrd. Yen für Einnahmen aus Forstprodukten, der Haupteinnahmequelle des Unternehmens. Darüber hinaus wurden 314,5 Milliarden Yen neu aufgenommen. Auch wenn dies im Vergleich zu den 28 Billionen Yen Defizit der ehemaligen japanischen Staatsbahn (JNR) gering erscheint, ist die Buchhaltung der nationalen Forstwirtschaft völlig zusammengebrochen.

Gleichzeitig wird die Bewirtschaftung der Wälder in Privatbesitz immer schwieriger. Zwar gibt es forstwirtschaftliche Familien, Unternehmen und Forstgenossenschaften, die aktiv kreative Forstbetriebe entwickeln, die das Beste aus den Waldressourcen machen, aber 94 % aller Waldbesitzer in Japan besitzen weniger als 20 Hektar Land, und vor allem die kleinen Waldbesitzer verlieren die Motivation, Forstwirtschaft zu betreiben. Auch die Überalterung der Arbeitskräfte in der Forstwirtschaft ist ein Problem: 29 % der Arbeitskräfte sind 65 Jahre oder älter. Die Aufforstungsfläche der Forstgenossenschaften macht etwa 90 % der Gesamtfläche der Privatwälder aus, und das von ihnen bearbeitete Holzvolumen macht 30 % der gesamten Produktion von Materialien aus Privatwäldern aus.

Wälder, die durch die Politik der Aufforstungsexpansion in gepflanzte Wälder umgewandelt wurden, erfordern eine angemessene Waldbewirtschaftung. Aufgrund der Stagnation der Forstwirtschaft und der Entvölkerung der Bergdörfer in den letzten Jahren werden die für die Pflege der Wälder erforderlichen Rodungen, Durchforstungen und sonstigen Maßnahmen jedoch nicht in angemessener Weise durchgeführt. Dadurch wird die Vitalität des Waldwachstums geschwächt, was zu einem Teufelskreis aus Wäldern führt, die in Zukunft nicht mehr für die Holzgewinnung genutzt werden können, und Wäldern, die aufgrund mangelnder Durchforstung und anderer Pflegemaßnahmen keine Wachstumsaussichten haben, was den Niedergang der Forstwirtschaft weiter beschleunigt. Gleichzeitig werden die im öffentlichen Interesse liegenden Funktionen der Wälder, wie z. B. die Wasserrückhaltung (Bodenschutz), geschwächt, und die Wälder werden auf andere Weise zerstört als durch Überhieb und Raubbau.

Politischer Wandel

Die Situation ändert sich langsam, und es gibt einen klaren Trend hin zur Erhaltung der Wälder und zur Wiederherstellung der heimischen Forstwirtschaft, einschließlich ihrer Rolle als CO2-Senke.

Der erste Schritt ist ein politischer Wandel. Drei forstwirtschaftliche Gesetzesentwürfe, darunter der Gesetzesentwurf zur Änderung des Forstgesetzes, der Gesetzesentwurf zur Änderung des Forstgesetzes und das Gesetz über vorläufige Maßnahmen zur Stärkung der forstwirtschaftlichen Infrastruktur, wurden am 29. Juni 2001 von der Abgeordnetenkammer verabschiedet und in Kraft gesetzt. Im Dezember 2000 kündigte die Forstbehörde ihr Programm zur Reform der Forstpolitik an, das darauf abzielt, die Forstpolitik von einer Konzentration auf die Holzproduktion auf eine Politik umzustellen, die auf die nachhaltige Erfüllung der verschiedenen Funktionen der Wälder abzielt, einschließlich der Erhaltung des Bodens, der Bewirtschaftung der Wasserressourcen und der Erhaltung der Umwelt. Die Überarbeitung des Grundgesetzes für den Wald und die Forstwirtschaft liegt im Einklang mit diesem Trend zur Reform der Forstpolitik.

Kurz gesagt soll mit der Überarbeitung der Schwerpunkt von Wäldern als Orte der Holzproduktion auf Wälder als "grüne Dämme" verlagert werden, die durch die drei Kategorien von Wäldern, einschließlich der im April 2002 eingeführten "Wasser- und Bodenschutzwälder", gekennzeichnet sind. Zu den Grundprinzipien des neuen Gesetzes gehören: die systematische Förderung von Aufforstung, Baumschule und Holzeinschlag entsprechend den regionalen Besonderheiten; eine effiziente und stabile Forstverwaltung und die Entwicklung der Humanressourcen zu diesem Zweck; die Förderung der Nutzung von Forstprodukten; und die internationale Zusammenarbeit zur Sicherstellung angemessener Importe unter Berücksichtigung der Multifunktionalität der Wälder in den Importländern (z.B. Anpassung der Zollsätze und Begrenzung der Importe in Notzeiten). Im Grundgesetz sind die folgenden Grundprinzipien festgelegt, und die Maßnahmen werden im Einklang mit diesen Grundprinzipien entwickelt. Während es einige Fragen gibt, die in Bezug auf spezifische Maßnahmen zu behandeln sind, wie die Konsolidierung der Verwaltung, die Einrichtung einer Forststruktur, die die Stärkung der Funktionen der Forstgenossenschaft als lokale Forstverwaltungseinheit, die Entwicklung von Humanressourcen und die Sicherung von Arbeitskräften in der Forstwirtschaft beinhaltet, besteht auch die Notwendigkeit, eine komplexe Geschäftseinheit zu schaffen, die für die Produktion und Verarbeitung spezieller Forstprodukte und anderer Industrien wie der Landwirtschaft verantwortlich sein wird, zusammen mit der Waldentwicklung, der Schaffung eines fortschrittlichen Bergdorfmodells, das holzige Biomasseressourcen nutzt, und der Entwicklung von Informations- und Kommunikationssystemen. Der Bericht schlägt auch die Schaffung eines fortschrittlichen Bergdorfmodells, die Entwicklung eines Systems zur Förderung des erlebnisorientierten Wald- und Bergdorftourismus durch die Bereitstellung von Informationen und die Förderung eines "ganzen Dorfmuseums" vor, das ein Museum für die Natur, den Lebensstil und die Kultur der Bergdörfer sein soll. In jedem Fall ist die Tatsache, dass die vielseitige Funktion des Waldes als ein wichtiger Wendepunkt in der Entwicklung des Landes positioniert wurde.

Ausweitung der Waldzertifizierung

In der Zwischenzeit beginnen sich Zertifizierungssysteme für eine nachhaltige Waldbewirtschaftung wie die FSC-Zertifizierung und ISO 14061 (Forest Management System) international zu verbreiten. Auch in Japan werden diese Zertifizierungen nach und nach erworben.

Der Forest Stewardship Council (461 Organisationen aus 55 Ländern, Stand Januar 2001) ist eine gemeinnützige Organisation, die 1993 von Vertretern von Umweltgruppen, Forstbetrieben, Holzhandelsunternehmen, indigenen Bevölkerungsgruppen, regionalen Forstverbänden und Zertifizierungsorganisationen für Forstprodukte gegründet wurde. Sie führt Aktivitäten zur Bewertung und Zertifizierung von Wäldern und Forstprodukten durch. Sein Ziel ist die Förderung einer wirtschaftlich nachhaltigen Waldbewirtschaftung unter Berücksichtigung des Umweltschutzes. Das FSC-Logo wird auf zertifiziertem Holz angebracht. Das FSC-Logo kann auf zertifiziertem Holz angebracht werden. In Europa und den Vereinigten Staaten wurden außerdem "Käufergruppen" eingerichtet, d. h. Gruppen von Unternehmen, die vorrangig FSC-zertifizierte Produkte kaufen. Derzeit gibt es solche Gruppen in den Vereinigten Staaten, dem Vereinigten Königreich, Australien, Österreich, den Niederlanden, der Schweiz, Schweden, Spanien, Deutschland, Belgien und anderen Ländern. Die "WWF 1995 Plus Group" der Käufergruppe in Großbritannien beispielsweise hat 90 teilnehmende Unternehmen und verarbeitet etwa 15 % der gesamten in Großbritannien verbrauchten Holzmenge. Die Zertifizierung stellt einen hohen Mehrwert für Forstunternehmen, Materialhersteller und Produkthersteller dar. Unternehmen, die an der Käufergruppe teilnehmen, und Lieferanten von zertifiziertem Holz und Holzprodukten erhalten Unterstützung von Umweltgruppen und anderen und können neue Geschäftsmöglichkeiten nutzen, die Umweltrisiken vermeiden.

In Japan sind die Hayami Forestry in der Präfektur Mie, die Yusuhara Forest Cooperative in der Stadt Yusuhara, Bezirk Takaoka, der Asahi Forest, der vom Shobara Forestry Office verwaltet wird, die Kusaki und Oyasan Experiment Forests in der Präfektur Gunma, die im Besitz der Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology sind, und der "Asahi Forest" im Besitz der Asahi Breweries, Ltd. sowie der Oyasan-Experimentierwald in der Präfektur Gunma, der Karasawayama-Experimentierwald in der Präfektur Tochigi und der Saitama-Experimentierwald in der Präfektur Saitama, die sich alle im Besitz der Universität für Landwirtschaft und Technologie Tokio befinden, haben Zertifizierungen für die Forstwirtschaft erhalten. Darüber hinaus hat die Präfektur Mie, eine ökologisch fortschrittliche Präfektur, im GJ2001 ein Projekt zur Unterstützung der FSC-Zertifizierung begonnen und plant, bis Ende des GJ2001 die Zertifizierung an zwei Standorten im Miyagawa-Flussbecken zu erlangen, mit dem Ziel, in Zukunft die Zertifizierung für das gesamte Präfekturbecken zu erhalten.

Hayami Forestry, das als erstes Unternehmen in Japan zertifiziert wurde, sagte: "Wir haben eine Reihe von Anfragen von großen Hausherstellern, 2x4-Herstellern und Designern erhalten, nachdem wir einen Zeitungsartikel über die Zertifizierung gelesen hatten. Wir haben auch Anfragen aus Übersee erhalten." Die Reaktion auf dem Markt war positiv. In Japan fördert der WWF Japan auch die Gründung einer einheimischen Käufergruppe, und mit Blick auf den internationalen Markt scheint es, dass die Zertifizierung in Zukunft eine Notwendigkeit sein wird.

Zu den Forstzertifizierungssystemen gehören PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification in Europe), AP&PA (American Forest Products and Paper Association) und die im März 1998 veröffentlichte ISO 14061. Die Norm soll die Verringerung der Umweltauswirkungen in die Forstwirtschaft als System einbeziehen, und Unternehmen in mehreren Ländern, darunter Kanada, Schweden und Großbritannien, haben die Zertifizierung erworben.

Abholzungsvorschriften und grünes BIP

Auf internationaler Ebene wird derzeit der Ruf nach Beschränkungen der Abholzung von Wäldern laut. Viele Länder wie China, Brasilien, Malaysia, Indonesien und Kanada schränken den Holzeinschlag ein oder begrenzen die Exporte, um die Wälder zu schützen oder Überschwemmungsschäden durch übermäßige Abholzung zu verhindern.

Das Konzept des "Grünen BIP" setzt sich allmählich als Denkansatz zur Unterstützung dieser Trends durch. Das grüne BIP ist eine vom World Resources Institute (WRI) entwickelte Umweltbilanzierungsmethode, die den wirtschaftlichen Wert der durch Umweltverschmutzung und die Verringerung natürlicher Ressourcen wie Wälder verursachten Schäden bewertet und diesen Wert vom aktuellen BIP abzieht. Im Falle Indonesiens beispielsweise beträgt die durchschnittliche jährliche BIP-Wachstumsrate von 7,1 % zwischen 1971 und 1984 nur 4,0 % pro Jahr, wenn man diese Methode anwendet.

Vor diesem Hintergrund dürfte die Einfuhr von Schnittholz aus dem Ausland in Zukunft noch schwieriger werden. Die Frage, wie die Verwendung von heimischem Holz gesteigert werden kann, also die Wiederbelebung der Forstwirtschaft, die Sicherstellung einer gründlichen Waldbewirtschaftung und die Erhaltung der Wälder, wird zweifellos ein wichtiges Thema der nationalen Politik in der Zukunft sein.

Wie das alte Börsensprichwort "Ride the national policy" besagt, entstehen neue Geschäftsbedürfnisse oft als Folge der nationalen Politik. Im Bereich der mit dem Waldschutz zusammenhängenden Unternehmen wird erwartet, dass neue Unternehmen zusätzlich zu den bestehenden Forstbetrieben, Forstunternehmen und Forstdienstleistungsunternehmen, die Dienstleistungen wie Waldbewirtschaftung und Auftragsvergabe von Forstgenossenschaften anbieten, wachsen werden, die in den letzten Jahren zugenommen haben, da forstwirtschaftliche Produktionstätigkeiten aufgrund der Überalterung der Forstarbeiter zunehmend ausgelagert werden.

Die Unterstützung der Waldbewirtschaftung durch Fernerkundung und GIS (Geografisches Informationssystem) sowie die Erstellung von GIS-Karten für den Wald werden in Zukunft wahrscheinlich immer häufiger zum Einsatz kommen. Ein forstliches GIS-System, mit dem Computer Waldpläne und andere Zeichnungen erfassen und mit Informationen über Attribute wie Fläche, Baumart und Alter des Waldes in Beziehung setzen können, wird für die ordnungsgemäße Bewertung von Wäldern, die Verhinderung eines Rückgangs der Waldfunktionen aufgrund mangelnder Pflege und die Formulierung von Waldplänen, die alle in Zukunft erforderlich sind, unerlässlich sein. Mehrere Kommunalverwaltungen, darunter die Präfekturen Niigata und Mie, haben dieses System bereits eingeführt, und die künftige Herausforderung wird darin bestehen, dieses System mit der Fernerkundung durch Erdbeobachtungssatelliten zu kombinieren. Es wird erwartet, dass das System auch im Bereich der Fernerkundung eingesetzt werden kann, dessen Kommerzialisierung derzeit geprüft wird.

Im Bereich der Forstzertifizierungssysteme ist das Audit- und Zertifizierungsgeschäft zu nennen, darunter SCS (USA), eine vom FSC akkreditierte Zertifizierungsorganisation, und Soil Association Woodmark (Großbritannien), das japanische Sekretariat für die FSC-Zertifizierung und die Amita Corporation (Japan), ein Umweltunternehmen, das sich mit der Koordinierung von Abfällen und anderen Geschäftsaktivitäten befasst. Die Amita Corporation (Chiyoda-ku, Tokio), ein Umweltunternehmen, das u. a. in der Abfallkoordination tätig ist, dient als japanisches Sekretariat für die Soil Association Woodmark (UK). Das Unternehmen koordiniert ein japanisches Auditteam, bietet Unterstützung bei der Arbeit vor Ort für die Zertifizierung und führt Audits der Produktzertifizierung durch interne Audit-Mitglieder durch. Das Unternehmen hat auch Hayami Forestry, Japans erstes zertifiziertes Unternehmen, betreut.

Im Zertifizierungsgeschäft hat das Unternehmen im Vorgriff auf den Handel mit Treibhausgasemissionen auch einen Zertifizierungsdienst für die CO2-Absorption von Wäldern durch Dritte eingeführt. SGS und Kokusai Kogyo, die eine Reihe von Inspektions-, Audit- und Zertifizierungsdiensten anbieten, haben im Vorfeld des Inkrafttretens des Kyoto-Protokolls ein "Waldsenken-Zertifizierungsprogramm" auf den Markt gebracht. Dieser Dienst berechnet quantitativ die Menge an CO2, die von Wäldern im Besitz von Unternehmen und anderen Einrichtungen absorbiert oder durch Aufforstung gewonnen wird, und zertifiziert sie aus der Sicht eines Dritten. Die Dienstleistung zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass sie sich auf die Nachhaltigkeit der Wälder im wahrsten Sinne des Wortes konzentriert, indem sie die Aspekte der biologischen Vielfalt und des Umweltschutzes einbezieht und die Funktion des Waldes als Senke quantifiziert. Das Unternehmen strebt einen Umsatz von 2 bis 3 Milliarden Yen in 5 Jahren an, wobei es sich die Erfahrung von SGS als ISO- und FSC-Forstzertifizierungsorganisation und die Vermessungs- und Messtechnik von Kokusai Kogyo zunutze macht.

Die Bauindustrie wird wahrscheinlich ein Schlüsselfaktor bei zukünftigen Projekten zum Schutz der Wälder sein. Einer der Gründe dafür ist, dass die Verwendung von Durchforstungsholz, das einer der Schlüssel für die Erhaltung der Wälder = den Wiederaufbau der Wälder ist, hauptsächlich für öffentliche Einrichtungen und Tiefbauprojekte verwendet wird, z. B. für Spanplatten, Holzzementplatten, Wärmedämmschalungen und Zierschalungen. Darüber hinaus diskutieren Forstgenossenschaften und Kommunalverwaltungen derzeit aktiv über die Vermarktung von Biomasse zur Stromerzeugung aus Holzspänen aus durchforsteten Wäldern, um die Forstwirtschaft wiederzubeleben und die regionale Entwicklung zu fördern. Es wird auch erwartet, dass die beiden Unternehmen ein gemeinsames Projekt starten.

Im September 2001 veröffentlichte das "Projektteam für eine reibungslose Arbeitskräftemobilität im Zusammenhang mit der Strukturreform der Bauindustrie" (Ministerium für Gesundheit, Arbeit und Soziales, Ministerium für Wirtschaft, Handel und Industrie und Ministerium für Land, Infrastruktur, Verkehr und Tourismus), das Maßnahmen für die Bauindustrie erörtert, in der aufgrund der endgültigen Beseitigung uneinbringlicher Forderungen und der Verringerung der Ausgaben für öffentliche Bauvorhaben ein Anstieg der Arbeitsplatzfluktuation erwartet wird, einen "Vorschlag für Maßnahmen für eine reibungslose Arbeitskräftemobilität im Zusammenhang mit der Strukturreform der Bauindustrie". Das Projektteam (Ministerium für Gesundheit, Arbeit und Soziales, Ministerium für Wirtschaft, Handel und Industrie und Ministerium für Land, Infrastruktur, Verkehr und Tourismus) erarbeitete im September 2001 einen "Vorschlag für Maßnahmen für eine reibungslose Mobilität der Arbeitskräfte in der Bauwirtschaft im Rahmen der Strukturreform". Der Vorschlag beinhaltete Maßnahmen wie steuerliche Anreize und zinsgünstige Darlehen staatlicher Finanzinstitute zur Unterstützung neuer Geschäftsfelder wie das Recycling von Industrieabfällen durch Bauunternehmen sowie den Einsatz von Bauarbeitern bei der Erhaltung und Bewirtschaftung von Wäldern (z. B. Durchforstung). Die "Special Grants for Emergency Regional Employment", in deren Rahmen die Präfekturen Projekte an private Unternehmen, gemeinnützige Organisationen und andere Organisationen vergeben, werden auch Hoch- und Tiefbauprojekte umfassen, die bisher nicht unter die Zuschüsse fielen, um die Arbeitskräfte des örtlichen Tiefbaus für die Waldpflege einzusetzen. Das Ministerium für Wirtschaft, Handel und Industrie (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, METI) wird die Einzelheiten mit der Forstbehörde ausarbeiten, aber wenn es umgesetzt wird, wird es wahrscheinlich keine geringen Auswirkungen auf die Forstwirtschaft haben.

Die Verwüstung der japanischen Wälder und der Niedergang der Forstindustrie sind also ein ernstes Problem, aber es gibt Anzeichen für eine allmähliche Verbesserung dank politischer Änderungen und der Einführung eines internationalen Forstzertifizierungssystems. Es ist zu hoffen, dass die Bemühungen um den Wiederaufbau einer nachhaltigen Waldbewirtschaftung und Forstwirtschaft weiterhin Fortschritte machen werden.

Devastated Domestic Forests: December 2001

Devastated Domestic Forests: December 2001

Domestic Forests in Ruins

Japan's forests cover approximately 25 million hectares, or 67% of the country's land area. Japan is a resource-rich country in terms of forest resources, boasting the third highest ratio of forests to total land area among industrialized countries, after Finland (76%) and Sweden (68%).

However, Japan's domestic forestry industry has been on the verge of a crisis for several decades. The reasons for this include the government's policy of afforestation, dependence on foreign timber imports, the collapse of mountain villages, and a reduction in the number of employees working on national forestry projects.

During the rapid economic growth that began in the 1960s, the government adopted a policy of afforestation to meet the rapidly increasing demand for timber by cutting down old-growth and natural forests and replanting them with fast-growing species (cedar, cypress, etc.) to convert them into planted forests. However, this resulted in the destruction of natural forests, and the forests with a wide variety of vegetation were suddenly converted to a single forest type of cedar and cypress. In the 1960s, however, nearly 80% of the forests were cleared by the clear-cutting method, and 22 to 26 million cubic meters of timber were logged per year, more than the actual growth rate, leading to the current depletion of the national forest resources.

In the 1960s, the price of lumber skyrocketed because forestry production could not keep up with the rapidly increasing demand for lumber, and imports of foreign lumber, which is generally inexpensive and can be supplied in large quantities at a uniform price, began in earnest. This has led to a slump in domestic lumber prices and instability. In 1973, the supply of lumber consisted of 22.89 million cubic meters of imported products, 52.49 million cubic meters of imported logs, and 42.21 million cubic meters of domestic lumber; in 1989, the supply was 4.807 million cubic meters and 35.19 million cubic meters, respectively, In 1999, the self-sufficiency rates were 60.26 million cubic meters, 18.78 million cubic meters, and 18.78 million cubic meters, respectively, a sharp decline. In addition, foreign timber has a large share of the lumber and plywood market, and domestic timber is used mostly for low-quality products such as bulbs and wood chips.

In parallel with the decline of the forestry industry, the rural labor force was absorbed by urban industrial workers, and the population of rural areas declined sharply. Since 1978, the government has also been promoting the securing of income, thorough downsizing of organizational structures, and reduction of personnel in accordance with the "Law on Special Measures for the Improvement of National Forestry Businesses" and the "Plan for the Improvement of National Forestry Businesses. The number of employees in the national forestry business was reduced from 89,000 at its peak in 1964 to 10,000 by the end of FY2000, and the number of forest offices was also reduced from 2,333 in 1978 to 1,256 in 1997. The number of forest offices also decreased from 351 in 1978 to 264 in 1997 as a result of consolidation and elimination. The number of forestry workers has decreased from 260,000 in 1965 to 140,000 in 1985 and 70,000 in 1999, and depopulation has continued. In addition, the number of forestry workers is aging.

Against this backdrop, the national forestry business, which accounts for about 30% of the total forest area in Japan, has been operating at a stand-alone profit since the introduction of the special corporate accounting system in the postwar period, but it has been constantly in the red since FY1975. In FY1996, the balance of the national forestry account totaled 301.9 billion yen in interest and redemption of long-term debt, compared to 88.6 billion yen in forest product income, the main source of income for the business. In addition, 314.5 billion yen was newly borrowed. Although this seems small compared to the 28 trillion yen deficit of the former Japanese National Railways (JNR), the accounting of the national forestry business has completely collapsed.

Meanwhile, forestry management in privately-owned forests is becoming increasingly difficult. Although there are forestry families, companies, and forestry cooperatives that are actively developing creative forestry operations that make the most of forest resources, 94% of all forest owners in Japan own less than 20 hectares of land, and small forest owners in particular are losing their motivation to manage forestry. The aging of the forestry workforce is also a problem, with 29% of the workforce aged 65 or older. The forestry cooperatives' forestation area accounts for about 90% of the total area of privately owned forests, and the volume of timber handled by them accounts for 30% of the total production of materials from privately owned forests.

Forests that have been converted to planted forests through the policy of afforestation expansion require appropriate forest management. However, due to the stagnation of the forestry industry and the depopulation of mountain villages in recent years, the clearing, thinning, and other operations necessary to nurture forests are not being carried out adequately. As a result, the vitality of forest growth is weakened, resulting in a vicious circle of forests that cannot be used for timber in the future and forests that have no prospects for growth due to lack of thinning and other care, which further accelerates the decline of the forestry industry. At the same time, the public interest functions of forests, such as water retention (soil conservation), have been weakened, and forests are being devastated in ways that are different from overcutting and overexploitation.

Policy Shift

The situation is slowly changing, and there is a clear trend toward forest conservation and the restoration of domestic forestry, including its role as a CO2 sink.

The first is a policy shift. Three forestry bills, including the Forest and Forestry Basic Law Amendment Bill, the Forest Law Amendment Bill, and the Provisional Measures Law on Funds for Strengthening Forestry Management Infrastructure, were passed and enacted by the House of Councillors on June 29, 2001. In December 2000, the Forestry Agency announced its Forestry Policy Reform Program, which aims to restructure forestry policy from a focus on lumber production to a policy that aims for the sustainable fulfillment of forests' diverse functions, including land conservation, water resource management, and environmental preservation. The revision of the Basic Law on Forest and Forestry is in line with this trend of forestry policy reform.

In a nutshell, the revisions are intended to shift the emphasis from forests as places for timber production to forests as "green dams," which are characterized by the three categories of forests, including "water and soil conservation forests," which will be introduced in April 2002. The basic principles of the new law include: systematic promotion of afforestation, nursery and logging according to regional characteristics; efficient and stable forestry management and human resource development for this purpose; promotion of the use of forest products; and international cooperation to ensure appropriate imports, taking into consideration the multifunctional nature of forests in importing countries (e.g., adjusting tariff rates and limiting imports in times of emergency). The Basic Law sets forth the following basic principles, and measures will be developed in line with these basic principles. While there are some issues to be addressed in terms of specific measures, such as the consolidation of management, the establishment of a forestry structure that includes the enhancement of the forestry cooperative's functions as the local forest management entity, the development of human resources, and the securing of forestry labor force, there is also a need to create a complex business entity that will be responsible for the production and processing of special forest products and other industries such as agriculture, along with forest development, the creation of an advanced mountain village model utilizing woody biomass resources, and the development of information and communication systems. The report also proposes the creation of an advanced mountain village model, the development of a system to promote forest and mountain village experience-based tourism by providing information, and the promotion of a "whole village museum," which would be a museum of the nature, lifestyle, and culture unique to mountain villages. In any case, the fact that the multifaceted function of forests has been positioned as a major turning point in the country's development.

Expanding Forest Certification

Meanwhile, forest certification systems for sustainable forest management, such as FSC forest certification and ISO 14061 (Forest Management System), are beginning to spread internationally. In Japan, these certifications are also being acquired one after another.

The Forest Stewardship Council (461 organizations from 55 countries as of January 2001) is a non-profit organization established in 1993 by representatives of environmental groups, forestry companies, timber trading companies, indigenous people's groups, regional forestry associations, and forest product certification organizations. It conducts activities to evaluate and certify forests and forest products. It aims to promote economically sustainable forest management while taking environmental conservation into consideration. The FSC logo mark is attached to certified wood. FSC logo mark can be attached to certified wood. In Europe and the United States, "Buyers Groups," groups of companies that give priority to purchasing FSC-certified products, have also been established. Currently, such groups have been established in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Austria, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, Germany, Belgium, and other countries. For example, the "WWF 1995 Plus Group" of the Buyers Group in the U.K. has 90 participating companies and handles approximately 15% of the total amount of wood consumed in the U.K. Certification is a high added value for forestry businesses, material manufacturers, and product manufacturers. Companies participating in the Buyers Group and suppliers of certified wood and wood products are receiving support from environmental groups and others, as well as seizing new business opportunities that avoid environmental risks.

In Japan, Hayami Forestry in Mie Prefecture, Yusuhara Forest Cooperative in Yusuhara Town, Takaoka County, Asahi Forest, which is managed by Shobara Forestry Office, Kusaki and Oyasan Experiment Forests in Gunma Prefecture, which are owned by Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, and the "Asahi Forest" owned by Asahi Breweries, Ltd. and Oyasan Experiment Forest in Gunma Prefecture, Karasawayama Experiment Forest in Tochigi Prefecture, and Saitama Experiment Forest in Saitama Prefecture, all of which are owned by Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, have acquired forest management certifications. In addition, Mie Prefecture, which is an environmentally advanced prefecture, began an FSC certification support project in FY2001, and plans to acquire certification at two locations within the Miyagawa River basin by the end of FY2001, with the goal of acquiring certification for the entire prefectural basin in the future.

Hayami Forestry, which became the first certified company in Japan, said, "We received a string of inquiries from major housing manufacturers, 2x4 manufacturers, and designers after reading a newspaper article about the certification. We have also received inquiries from overseas." The response in the market has been positive. In Japan, WWF Japan is also promoting the creation of a domestic buyers' group, and with an eye on the international market, it appears that certification will become a necessity in the future.

Forest certification systems include PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification in Europe), AP&PA (American Forest Products and Paper Association), and ISO 14061, which was issued in March 1998. The standard is designed to incorporate environmental impact reduction into forest management as a system, and companies in several countries, including Canada, Sweden, and the U.K., have acquired certification.

Deforestation Regulations and Green GDP

There is a current international call for restrictions on deforestation. In fact, many countries, such as China, Brazil, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Canada, are restricting logging or limiting exports in order to protect forests or prevent flood damage caused by over-forestation.

The concept of "Green GDP" is gradually gaining ground as a way of thinking to support these trends. Green GDP is an environmental accounting method developed by the World Resources Institute (WRI) that assesses the economic value of damage caused by environmental pollution and reduction of natural resources such as forests, and subtracts this value from the current GDP. For example, in the case of Indonesia, the average annual GDP growth rate of 7.1% between 1971 and 1984 is said to be only 4.0% per year when adjusted using this method.

In light of this, imports of lumber from abroad are expected to become even more difficult in the future. How to increase the use of domestic timber, in other words, how to revitalize the forestry industry, ensure thorough forest management, and preserve forests, will undoubtedly be a major theme of national policy in the future.

As the old saying in the stock market goes, "Ride the national policy," new business needs are often created as a result of national policies. In forest conservation-related businesses, new businesses are expected to grow in addition to existing forestry businesses, forestry enterprises, and forestry service businesses that provide services such as forestry cultivation and contracting from forestry cooperatives, which have been increasing in recent years as forestry production activities are increasingly outsourced due to the aging of forestry workers.

For example, forest management support using remote sensing and GIS (Geographic Information System), and the creation of forest GIS maps are likely to become more common in the future. A forest GIS system that allows computers to record forest plans and other drawings and correlate them with information on attributes such as area, tree species, and age of the forest will be indispensable for the proper evaluation of forests, prevention of decline in forest functions due to lack of care, and formulation of forest plans, all of which are required in the future. Several local governments, including Niigata and Mie prefectures, have already introduced this system, and the future challenge will be to combine this system with remote sensing using earth observation satellites. The system is also expected to be used in the field of remote sensing, which is currently being explored for commercialization.

In the area of forest certification systems, the audit and certification business can be mentioned, including SCS (U.S.), a certification organization accredited by FSC, and Soil Association Woodmark (U.K.), the Japanese secretariat for FSC certification, and Amita Corporation (Japan), an environmental venture engaged in waste coordination and other business activities. Amita Corporation (Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo), an environmental venture engaged in waste coordination and other activities, serves as the Japanese secretariat for the Soil Association Woodmark (UK). The company coordinates a Japanese audit team, provides support for on-site work for certification, and conducts audits of product certification by in-house audit members. The company also handled Hayami Forestry, Japan's first certified company.

In the certification business, the company has also launched a third-party forest CO2 absorption certification service in anticipation of global warming gas emissions trading. SGS and Kokusai Kogyo, which offer a variety of inspection, auditing, and certification services, have commercialized a "forest sink certification program" in advance of the Kyoto Protocol coming into effect. This service quantitatively calculates the amount of CO2 absorbed by forests owned by companies and other entities or obtained through afforestation, and certifies it from a third-party standpoint. The service is characterized by its focus on the sustainability of forests in the true sense of the word, incorporating biodiversity and environmental conservation perspectives as well as quantifying the forest's function as a sink. The company is aiming for sales of 2 to 3 billion yen in 5 years, taking advantage of SGS's expertise as an ISO and FSC forest certification organization and Kokusai Kogyo's surveying and measuring technologies.

The construction industry is likely to be a key factor in future forest conservation-related projects. One of the reasons for this is that the use of thinned wood, which is one of the keys to forest conservation = forestry reconstruction, is mostly used for public facilities and civil engineering projects, such as particle boards, wood cement boards, thermal insulation formwork, and decorative formwork. In addition, as a use of wood waste, which is obligated to be recycled under the Construction Materials Recycling Law, forestry cooperatives and local governments are now actively discussing the commercialization of biomass power generation using wood chips from thinned forests to revitalize the forestry industry and promote regional development. The two companies are also expected to launch a joint project.

In September 2001, the "Project Team for Smooth Labor Mobility in Connection with Structural Reform of the Construction Industry" (Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism), which is discussing measures for the construction industry, where an increase in job turnover is expected due to the final disposal of bad debts and reduction of public works expenditures, issued a "Proposal for Measures for Smooth Labor Mobility in Connection with Structural Reform of the Construction Industry. The project team (Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism) compiled a "Proposal on Measures for Smooth Labor Mobility in the Construction Industry under Structural Reform" in September 2001. The proposal included measures such as tax incentives and low-interest loans from government-affiliated financial institutions to support new businesses such as industrial waste recycling by construction companies, as well as the use of construction workers in forest conservation and management (e.g., thinning). The "Special Grants for Emergency Regional Employment," under which prefectures outsource projects to private companies, NPOs, and other organizations, will also include construction and civil engineering projects, which were not previously covered by the grants, to shift the labor force of local civil engineering workers to forest maintenance. The Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) will work out the details with the Forestry Agency, but if realized, it is likely to have no small impact on the forestry industry.

Thus, the devastation of Japan's forests and the decline of the forestry industry are serious problems, but there are signs of gradual improvement thanks to policy changes and the introduction of an international forest certification system. It is hoped that efforts to rebuild sustainable forest management and forestry will continue to make progress.