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.

146-Environmental Destruction-Summary-September 2006

146-Environmental Destruction-Summary-September 2006

**Green GDP Estimates**
In 2004, economic losses due to environmental pollution in China were estimated at 511.8 billion yuan, with water pollution accounting for 55.9% and air pollution for 42.9%. While green GDP estimates should also consider ecological destruction and resource depletion, data limitations only allowed partial calculation. Nonetheless, losses equivalent to 3.05% of GDP were revealed, highlighting the importance of environmental conservation.

**Losses Due to Environmental Pollution**
In 2004, environmental pollution in China resulted in losses equivalent to 3.05% of GDP, with government investment in countermeasures reaching less than half of this figure at 1.18%. Severe water and air pollution require substantial further investment for remediation. While the government is making efforts, the current state of pollution still requires significant improvement.

**Impact of Invasive Species on Ecosystems and Strengthened Regulations**
In Japan, the impact of invasive species like the Western honey bee on ecosystems has become a concern, leading to the enactment and strengthening of the Invasive Alien Species Act. While the use of biological pesticides and microbial control agents has been promoted, caution is still necessary regarding the ecological impact of introducing these species. While the introduction of invasive species is being advanced as part of environmentally friendly agriculture, further research and stricter regulations are needed to balance risks and benefits.

**Japan's Environmental Liability Insurance**
Environmental pollution liability insurance has been introduced in Japan to cover risks associated with soil contamination in real estate transactions. Initially launched by AIU Insurance Company in 1992, this insurance is positioned as an incentive to prevent environmental destruction accidents. Currently, oil pollution liability insurance is the most widespread, covering "oil storage facilities" under the Water Pollution Control Act.

**Strengthened Pollution Regulations and Chemical Management**
In Japan, pollution regulations such as the Air Pollution Control Act, Water Pollution Control Act, and Soil Contamination Countermeasures Act have been strengthened. As a result, companies are required to ensure safety through prior screening of chemical production and import, while also working to reduce environmental impacts. Particularly, chemical management under the PRTR Law and J-MOSS (Recycling Law) has progressed, promoting the reduction of chemical use through these regulations.

154 Green Technology Summary 2007 May

154 Green Technology Summary 2007 May

1. Utilization Expansion of Domestic Timber - May 2007
The utilization of domestic timber has expanded, and the production volume of softwood plywood has reached a record high. Factors include stricter logging regulations in Malaysia and Indonesia, along with a weak yen, making domestic timber more economically viable. Additionally, the improvement in the technology for using thinned wood has contributed to forest management, significantly increasing the market share of domestic plywood.

2. PET Bottle Recycling Technology - May 2007
Teijin Fiber has partnered with Sumitomo Corporation and Tomra Japan to develop a new recycling business utilizing PET bottle collection technology. This partnership ensures a stable supply route for recycled bottles, with expectations for reduced environmental impact. As the recycling system improves, it may also influence future legal amendments.

3. Sea Surface Temperature Rise and Impact on Fisheries - May 2007
The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that the sea surface temperature around Japan has risen by 0.7 to 1.6 degrees over the past 100 years. This rise is particularly notable during winter, affecting fisheries and food production. In Wakayama Prefecture, mackerel catches have decreased while chub mackerel catches have increased. In Aomori Prefecture, kelp growth areas have shrunk, impacting fisheries.

4. CO2 Reduction through the Use of Renewable Energy - May 2007
Mixi has started an initiative to power all servers using renewable energy, reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 800 tons annually. The company plans to further promote environmental activities by considering eco-projects that involve user participation.

5. Shift to Sustainable Public Works - May 2007
There is a shift from traditional public works to projects focused on environmental conservation and natural restoration. Wetland conservation and dam removal are among the eco-rebuild public works that are creating regional industries, with high economic benefits. Preventing global warming and realizing a recycling-oriented society are becoming the main pillars of new public works.

6. Development of Biomass Projects - May 2007
Biomass projects that convert food waste and other organic materials into feed or energy are spreading across regions. These projects are expected to create new industries and promote efficient biomass utilization. Additionally, wind and solar energy projects are being implemented on a regional basis.

7. CO2 Absorption Certification System for Forests - May 2007
Wakayama Prefecture has introduced a certification system for CO2 absorption through afforestation. The system targets companies and organizations participating in the "Forest of Companies" project, certifying CO2 absorption over 100 years, encouraging further environmental conservation efforts in the region.

8. Promotion of Natural Restoration Projects and Ecological Infrastructure - May 2007
In Japan, natural restoration projects are being promoted to restore the environment that was damaged during the economic growth period. These projects, including wetland restoration and riparian forest repair, are gaining attention as new public works that combine environmental conservation with economic benefits.

9. Climate Change Impact on Lake Biwa - May 2007
Lake Biwa experienced an unprecedented phenomenon where the surface and deep waters did not mix due to a mild winter. This has resulted in a delay in the recovery of oxygen levels in the spring, raising concerns about the impact on the ecosystem. Ongoing research is required to assess future conditions.

10. Progress in Automobile Recycling - May 2007
After the enforcement of the Automobile Recycling Law, the number of vehicles recycled through the official route increased by 17% year-on-year. Although the amount of deposit fees decreased, the reduction of environmental impact and the efficiency of recycling have improved.

5 December 1994-summary-environmental technology

5-en-gijutsu-December 1994-summary-environmental technology

Recycling of waste materials for new market creation
A related organization of the Fisheries Agency is developing technology to create artificial reefs using waste materials and remove shellfish from the surface of rocks on the coast, aiming to create a new market. The plan is to utilize coal ash, used concrete, and shells to produce highly productive fishing grounds. A preparatory committee has been established by nine companies, and a total of 200 million yen will be invested in the development of this technology.

Strengthening regulations for stable final disposal sites
The Environment Agency and the Ministry of Health and Welfare have decided to strengthen regulations on stable final disposal sites for industrial waste. The plan is to conduct a factual survey of 100 disposal sites nationwide, evaluate the risk of water contamination caused by the discharge of sewage and the leakage of chemical substances, and, based on this evaluation, consider measures such as mandatory drainage countermeasures and a ban on the disposal of hazardous plastics.

New energy introduction framework
In Japan, the supply of new energy was only 1.2% of the total energy supply as of 1992. The New Energy Introduction Framework aims to significantly increase this supply by 2010, with plans to expand solar power generation, waste-to-energy, and other initiatives, to meet the goal of reducing carbon dioxide emissions.

Research on emission reduction technology for ships
The Ministry of Transport has begun research on emission reduction technology for ships in response to regulations being promoted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The ministry will conduct research on emission reduction technologies such as air injection and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) to effectively reduce harmful gas emissions from ships.

Recycling biodegradable plastic bags
The Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) has launched a model project in Hiroshima City to recycle biodegradable plastic bags along with the waste inside them. The project will verify whether biodegradable plastic can withstand practical use in terms of cost and technology, with the aim of promoting the widespread use of biodegradable plastics and establishing food waste recycling.

Guidelines for recycling in the automotive parts industry
The Japan Auto Parts Industries Association has compiled recycling guidelines to promote the development of parts that can be easily recycled, with about 500 member companies expected to implement these guidelines. The guidelines provide 74 points for the recycling of scrapped cars, and by promoting recyclable designs, it is expected to reduce processing costs.

Asian chemical manufacturers establish recycling information network
Chemical manufacturers from eight Asian countries, including Japan, Korea, and the Philippines, have agreed to establish a permanent organization to promote the recycling of expanded polystyrene (EPS). The new organization will promote resource recovery of EPS in collaboration with recycling organizations and operators in each country, and will actively exchange information with similar organizations in Europe and the United States to build a global recycling information network.

Review of Eco-Mark certification standards
The Environment Agency is reviewing the criteria for Eco-Mark, Japan's eco-label, and will introduce Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to evaluate products. The agency plans to establish new certification standards by June 1995, with input from experts, to promote the development of environmentally friendly products.

Pyrolysis technology for waste plastics
There is growing interest in pyrolysis technology for converting waste plastics into oil. The technology, which aims to reduce environmental impact and improve recycling efficiency, is being researched and is expected to progress toward practical application. The process of converting waste plastics back into oil could play a significant role in environmental preservation.

Expansion of the household food waste processor market
Household food waste processors are being introduced by various home appliance manufacturers as part of waste reduction measures. The processors, developed by Matsushita Electric and Sanyo Electric, use microbial decomposition and hot air drying methods, improving functionality and ease of use. The spread of these products will depend heavily on increased environmental awareness among consumers.

Issue 84 - Environmental Technology Summary - July 2001

1. Utilizing Unused Energy with Heat Pumps
One example of unused energy is the heat pump, which utilizes geothermal energy. Geothermal energy maintains a stable temperature throughout the year, making it highly energy-efficient and suitable for heating, cooling, and hot water applications. Geothermal heat pumps are expected to contribute to CO2 reduction and reduce environmental impact. This technology is also expected to grow as a new sector in the energy market.

2. Recycling of Gypsum Board
The recycling of gypsum boards is being promoted. In Japan, approximately 4.7 million tons of gypsum boards are produced annually, and efforts are being made to reuse waste materials and demolition materials. Proper handling at construction sites, including waste separation, is crucial. Additionally, improving the quality of recycled gypsum and developing new applications are ongoing challenges.

3. Cleaning Diesel Exhaust
Efforts are underway to clean diesel exhaust gases. In particular, there is a strong focus on eradicating illegal diesel oil, with ongoing technological development to reduce harmful emissions from diesel engines. This is expected to significantly reduce the emission of pollutants that cause air pollution.

4. Compliance with Environmental Regulations
There is a discussion on how to address environmental regulations. Companies are expected to comply with laws such as the Offensive Odor Control Law to reduce environmental impact and contribute to the creation of a sustainable society.

5. Formation of a Circular Economy
Efforts are being made towards the formation of a circular economy. The focus is on the effective use of resources and the promotion of recycling, with policies aimed at reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills. Technological development to increase the recycling rate of industrial waste is particularly needed.

6. Introduction of Industrial Waste Tax
Mie Prefecture has introduced Japan's first industrial waste tax. This tax is levied on waste that is ultimately disposed of, with the aim of promoting recycling and preventing illegal dumping. This is expected to encourage waste reduction and the promotion of recycling.

7. Solar Power Installation Targets
Targets for the installation of solar power systems have been set, with the introduction of new technologies in the energy sector being actively pursued. The promotion of low-emission vehicles and energy-efficient homes is progressing, with policies in place to reduce environmental impact.

8. Environmentally Friendly Corporate Behavior
The Ministry of the Environment has reported on the progress of environmentally friendly corporate behavior. Companies are increasingly disclosing environmental information and implementing environmental management systems, with environmental initiatives becoming more widespread.

9. Recycling of Textile Products
The recycling of textile products is being promoted, but the diverse materials used in these products limit the applications for recycled items. Therefore, the industry is being encouraged to develop products that are easier to recycle.

10. Expansion of Nuclear Power Plants as a Global Warming Measure
The expansion of nuclear power plants has been proposed as a measure to combat global warming. Particularly, the expansion of nuclear power is seen as necessary to meet CO2 reduction targets, although local opposition continues to be a challenge.