Additional Information on“Best Practices”in Policies and Measures submitted by the Government of Japan

Guideline of Measures to Prevent Global Warming Progress to Date and Next Steps

On 19 June 1998, the Guideline of Measures to Prevent Global Warming was established by a decision of the Global Warming Prevention Headquarters in the Japanese Government, to indicate the urgent measures which should be promoted towards the year 2010 in order to prevent global warming.

The Government has started concrete measures on a full scale to achieve Japan's 6% emissions reduction target as decided at COP3. Subsequent to the decision on the Guideline of Measures to Prevent Global Warming, in April 1999 both the Law Concerning the Rational Use of Energy and the Law Concerning the Promotion of the Measures to Cope with Global Warming came into force.

This report is a compilation of the major progress to date and next steps.

Contents

1. Comprehensive Promotion of Measures to Prevent Global Warming *

2. Promotion of Measures to Reduce CO₂ Emissions, Focusing on Measures Related to Energy Supply and Demand *

2.1 Promotion of Energy Demand Side Measures to Reduce CO₂ Emissions *

(1) Drastic Improvement of Energy Efficiency by the Revised Law Concerning the Rational Use of Energy *

(2)　Strengthening Energy Efficiency Standards *

(3) Changing to a CO₂ Emission-Limiting Society by Infrastructure Development, etc. *

(4) Review of Action Plans of Industry *

(5) Development and Diffusion of New Energy Saving Technologies, etc. *

2.2 Promotion of Energy Supply-Side Measures to Reduce CO₂ Emissions *

(1) Promoting Construction of Nuclear Power Plants *

(2) Accelerating the Introduction of New Energy *

(3) Promotion of Measures for Electrical Load Leveling *

2.3 Promotion of Other Measures to Limit CO₂ Emissions *

(1) Promotion of Measures to Limit CO₂ Emissions from Industrial Processes *

(2) Promotion of Measures to Limit CO₂ Emissions from Waste Treatment *

(3) Promotion of Efficient Use of Wood Resources *

3. Promotion of Measures to Limit Emissions of Other Greenhouse Gases *

(1) Promotion of Measures to Limit Emissions of CFC Alternatives (HFC, PFC, and SF6) *

(2) Promotion of Measures to Reduce Methane Emissions *

(3) Promotion of Measures to Reduce Nitrous Oxide Emissions *

4. Promotion of Measures Involving CO₂ Sinks Such as Afforestation, etc. *

(1) Promotion of Forest Management *

(2) Promotion of Urban Greenery *

5.Strengthening Research and Development of Advanced and Innovative Environmental and Energy Technologies *

6. Strengthening Earth Observation Systems, etc. *

7. Promotion of International Cooperation *

(1) Realizing the Kyoto Initiative *

(2) Technological Contribution by the Climate Technology Initiative *

(3) Finding Possible Joint Projects through Dialogue with Related Countries *

8. Reviewing of lifestyle *

(1) Stimulating Public Discussion about the Introduction of Daylight Saving Time *

(2) Securing Social Conditions Leading to Promotion of Safe and Appropriate Use of Bicycles *

(3) Improvement of Structures for Education/Awareness Raising and Information Dissemination *

(4) Exemplary actions by Government *

(5) Expansion of Greening Activities as Measures to Prevent Global Warming *

(6) Implementation of Model Projects which lead to Innovation in Social Systems *

1. Comprehensive Promotion of Measures to Prevent Global Warming

In October 1998, the Law Concerning the Promotion of the Measures to Cope with Global Warming was enacted. In April 1999, the law went into force, and a Cabinet Decision based on the law defined the basic guidelines containing the basic elements of measures which should be taken by every sector of the society, including the central government, local governments, businesses and citizens. In July 1999, the National Center for the Promotion of Activities to Cope with Global Warming was designated. The government will promote comprehensive measures to prevent global warming, including the establishment of action plans on the government’s activities.

2.1 Promotion of Energy Demand Side Measures to Reduce CO₂ Emissions

(1) Drastic Improvement of Energy Efficiency by the Revised Law Concerning the Rational Use of Energy

The Revised Law Concerning the Rational Use of Energy went into force in April 1999. The law introduces the concept of the “Top Runner Approach” regarding efficiency standards for automobile and household electrical products and office appliances. Under this approach, efficiency standards are set with an aim of meeting or exceeding the highest energy efficiency levels that have been achieved among products currently commercialized. Future standards will aim at improvements of fuel efficiency of passenger automobiles using gasoline by about 23% between 1995 and 2010, and energy efficiency of household electrical products and office appliances by between 14% and 83%.

(2)Strengthening Energy Efficiency Standards

The Revised Law Concerning the Rational Use of Energy also aims at proper and effective rationalization of energy use in factories and business sites. Large factories and business sites are now mandated to prepare plans to promote efforts to systematically rationalize energy consumption, in addition to existing obligations. Middle-sized factories and business sites, which did not have any obligations under the law now, have some obligations such as nomination of a person that manages energy consumption. In addition, “Evaluation Standards” were established which define conditions which business operators should observe and targets for rationalizing energy use. Next steps include, as necessary, providing guidance and advice on rational use of energy. For factories and business sites whose efforts are extremely inadequate, measures in the Law such as publicizing their names will be invoked.

Inspections on compliance with the Law of 1,570 factories with large energy consumption have been conducted.

Energy efficiency standards for housing and buildings were revised and strengthened (aiming for about a 20% reduction in energy consumption for heating and cooling of housing, and about 10% for buildings), based on the Law. A review of insulation standards of building materials was conducted. Next steps include, as necessary, providing guidance and advice on the rational use of energy, and encouragement of compliance with the standards.

Technological development was promoted to achieve improvements in the energy efficiency of railways, ships and aircraft, and a Treasury Investment and Loan Program was implemented in order to promote the introduction of more efficient equipment.

(3) Changing to a CO₂ Emission-Limiting Society by Infrastructure Development, etc.

Ａ． Formulation of Urban and Regional Structure with Low CO₂ Emissions

The construction of fuel supply stations (Eco-Service Stations, etc.) such as EV quick chargers, natural gas quick refillers and methanol stations was promoted in order to promote greater use of clean-energy vehicles and low-emission vehicles.

"Telework" allows work to be done away from the office using information and communications technology so as to reduce energy used for commuting. Construction of "Telework" centers was subsidized, wide area information/communications network model design projects were implemented, and a tax system to promote "Telework" was introduced.

The building of a network of water-front and green spaces in urbanized areas was promoted through securing urban water surfaces and improving green spaces in parks. In addition, environment-friendly model housing and community projects were implemented including model projects using heat from treated wastewater. In addition, projects to improve facilities having rainwater storage and penetration functions were carried out. Also, rainwater storage and penetration sewerage projects were subsidized.

In order to promote houses and buildings with high efficiency, model projects and projects to promote the expansion of housing with less environmental impact were implemented. Next steps include implementing projects to promote the introduction of high-efficiency systems for housing and buildings, as well as spread of energy efficient houses and office buildings, in fiscal 1999.

Improvements in systems to use natural energy were made through projects for next-generation urban improvement projects. Also, systems to use urban energy were designed. In addition, research was conducted regarding an urban energy source network.

Ｂ． Improving Efficiency of Distribution

A shift from own delivery to self-employed individuals and freight consolidating were promoted in order to increase truckload efficiency. In addition, bridges were reinforced to accommodate larger vehicle carriage sizes, forming a road network. Next steps include active promotion of policies relating to shifting own delivery to self-employed individuals and freight consolidating, in order to raise overall truckload efficiency. In addition, efforts will be made to reinforce bridges to accommodate larger vehicle carriage sizes.

The following were implemented: construction work to accommodate freight trains; improvements of domestic intermodal transport terminals; improvements of international container terminals; road improvements to make better access to airports and ports; and improvements of flexibility for Joint-Ownership Method by Corporation for Advanced Transport and Technology, relating to construction of Roll On/Roll Off Vessels. Future steps include aiming for improvement in the proportion of long-distance freight carried by rail and ocean to more than 50% by 2010, excluding primary industrial commodities. In addition, for domestic intermodal transport terminals, future steps include making improvements so that 90% of the population is covered within a half day round trip by ground transportation, and for international container terminals making improvements aiming for about a 30% reduction in the ground transport costs for export/import containers, assuming the current situation continues. Furthermore, based on the 5-Year Road Improvement Plan, future steps include promoting road improvements to make better access to airports and ports, and striving to achieve 44% accessibility for primary airports and ports by the end of fiscal 2002.

The following were implemented: improvements in road network of airports/ports/high-grade main roads, wide area distribution center, and infrastructure for international exchanges that conduct improvement projects for information/communications infrastructure.

Ｃ． Promoting Use of Public Transportation

In order to promote the utilization of railways the following were implemented: improvements on new bullet train projects; improvements on subways and "newtown" railways; better utilization of main rail lines by adapting freight lines to passenger use, etc.; and improvements of public spaces in front of stations.

Financial assistance was provided for improvements in barrier-free facilities including installation in train stations of elevators, escalators, and washrooms for handicapped persons, to promote the convenient use of trains, especially by older and handicapped persons.

The following were conducted: study/research towards the improvement of streetcars; studies relating to plans to introduce cars with low floors; and construction work on urban monorail/new transport systems, with partial commencement of services.

In order to promote use of buses, with the objective of realizing city designs based on bus traffic, the ‘omnibus town’ concept, and introduction of ‘non-step buses’ were promoted.

The Public Transportation Priority Systems (PTPS), a sub-system of the Universal Traffic Management Systems (UTMS) which are designed to ensure priority passage to buses using traffic signal controls, was improved.

In order to improve the utility of buses, bus lanes were marked with colored pavement, and improvements were made to ‘high-grade’ bus stops.

D． Reducing Traffic Congestion

In order to achieve improvements in transport efficiency using Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), with the collaboration of the relevant ministries, feasibility studies for social testing for full-scale introduction were implemented, as well as the establishment of standards for this work. In addition, improvements in the Vehicle Information and Communication System (VICS) were promoted to expand the information provision service area. With regards to the Electronic Toll Collection System (ETC) which allows drivers to pay tolls automatically without stopping has been moving ahead to actual deployment of conventional tollgate equipment, and tests were conducted to verify results.

With regards to transportation demand management, the outline of comprehensive plans for smooth urban transportation has been prepared, and planning work has begun.

In order to optimize traffic management, improvements were promoted in the Universal Traffic Management Systems (UTMS) mainly in traffic control centers. In addition, verification work was promoted towards the actual use of the traffic Environmental Protection Management Systems (EPMS), which includes signal controls to limit the number of unnecessary starts and stops by vehicles, and provides information from areas where the environment is worsening.

The following were implemented to relieve/reduce traffic congestion: improvements in ring roads and construction work for continuous flow intersections using an overpass or underpass. In addition, improvements in urban parking lots and relief at key congestion points based on the Congestion Reduction Programme were conducted.

(4) Review of Action Plans of Industry

Reviews of voluntary action plans already made by industries to save energy and curtail releases of CO₂ and CFC substitutes have been carried out, so as to ensure their effectiveness. These reviews encompassed sectors including manufacturing, energy, distribution, telecommunications, broadcasting and food. Transportation, construction, real estate and housing industries have also prepared voluntary action plans, and follow-up reviews of these sectors will be conducted.

(5) Development and Diffusion of New Energy Saving Technologies, etc.

Ａ． Promotion of Development and Diffusion of New Energy Saving Technologies, etc.

Development of high performance industrial furnaces was carried out aiming for more than 30% improvements in energy efficiency compared to conventional types, and field tests were started to verify their actual performance and reliability. In addition, corroborative work was conducted for essential technologies relating to next generation high performance boilers (with improved boiler efficiency of about 17%). Furthermore, plans exist for comprehensive assessment of pilot boiler plants.

Development work was commenced on high-efficiency lighting using light emitting diodes, aiming at increase in energy efficiency by 50% above fluorescent lighting.

Research and development of technologies to reduce standby energy consumption of household and office appliances were started.

Research and development was implemented for super low electrical consumption liquid crystal displays, and a mid-term assessment was conducted during fiscal 1998.

Ｂ． Promotion of the Diffusion of Clean-Energy Vehicles, Low-Emission Vehicles and High Fuel Efficiency Vehicles

For tax revisions in fiscal 1999, an expansion of special tax measures was conducted relating to automobile acquisition tax, with the creation of special taxation criteria for high fuel efficiency vehicles (low fuel consumption vehicles) and lower special tax rates on low emission vehicles.

Technological development and subsidies for vehicle acquisition were conducted for clean-energy vehicles, low-emission vehicles and high fuel efficiency vehicles. With regards to the fuel consumption standards for automobiles under the Revised Law on the Rational Use of Energy, in March 1999 a Notification was issued for energy-efficiency standards which adopt the Top Runner Method. These efforts aim for spreading and promoting clean-energy vehicles, low-emission vehicles and high fuel efficiency vehicles. We also continue to consider every effective policy measure, including tax systems on vehicles, to promote high fuel efficiency vehicles.

In order to make progress with procurement by public bodies, clean-energy vehicles and low-emission vehicles were introduced in bus and garbage collection operations, etc., implemented by local governments. In addition, clean-energy vehicles/low emission vehicles (electric, natural gas vehicles) were under trial operation by post offices nationwide.

Subsidies were provided for the introduction of clean-energy vehicles and low-emission vehicles, including the private sector. The target for the introduction of clean-energy vehicles and low-emission vehicles in fiscal 2010 is 3.65 million vehicles.

2.2 Promotion of Energy Supply-Side Measures to Reduce CO₂ Emissions

(1)Promoting Construction of Nuclear Power Plants

In order to build the understanding and to obtain cooperation of the public for nuclear power plant construction, various measures were implemented to provide correct knowledge and precise information, including the organizing of ‘the Round-Table Conferences on Nuclear Policy’.

Financial support was provided for local governments in areas where nuclear power plants are located or being considered, to be used for projects, including public investments, and to promote industries.

The Electric Power Development Coordination Council strengthened its activities in discussing regional development plans of regions which have large scale nuclear power generation facilities.

(2) Accelerating the Introduction of New Energy

Generation capacity by photovoltaic power generation reached about 90,000 kW by fiscal 1997. In order to achieve market viability of photovoltaic power generation a subsidy system has been operated for home photovoltaic systems. 8,200 applications for such subsidies were received in fiscal 1998. By fiscal 1997, about 20,000 kW of wind powered generation and 950,000 kW of waste powered generation had been introduced.

20 sewerage treatment facilities generated electricity using gas from sewerage sludge digestion.

(3) Promotion of Measures for Electrical Load Leveling

In 1998, MITI established a new subsidy program targeting machines/systems that would demonstrate significant policy effects. By using this program, more thermal storage air conditioning systems which use ice to store cold heat, and air conditioning using gas, were promoted. Also, activities to win public approval of load leveling and measures to develop technology, which will contribute to load leveling, were implemented.

2.3 Promotion of Other Measures to Limit CO₂ Emissions

(1) Promotion of Measures to Limit CO₂ Emissions from Industrial Processes

The use of mixed cement which emits less CO₂ than ordinary cement was expanded.

(2) Promotion of Measures to Limit CO₂ Emissions from Waste Treatment

Waste recycling/re-using facilities were promoted in order to suppress the volume of waste incinerated and emissions of CO₂. The target is to raise the recycling rate of general waste to 15% by fiscal 2002.

(3) Promotion of Efficient Use of Wood Resources

The following activities have been conducted:

- research and development in producing high-quality wood products at low-costs;

- research and development that allows utilization of by-product timber derived from thinningcutting trees to thin forests;

- exploration of new markets for timber resources;

- exploration of new use of timber products;

- public relations to promote long-term use of timber products.

(1) Promotion of Measures to Limit Emissions of CFC Alternatives (HFC, PFC, and SF6)

Ａ． Promotion of Systematic Efforts by the Industrial Sector

In February 1998, a public notice was issued containing guidelines for the preparation of industry action plans which include measures to control HFC and other emissions as well as numerical targets. Based on this, the preparation of action plans by relevant industries was requested. In response, industries prepared action plans in April 1998. A review of the action plans was conducted and the results were announced in May of the same year. In May 1999 the progress made with the action plans by the industries was reviewed. Next steps include efforts to achieve the promotion, improvement and day-to-day application of countermeasures for leakage from production plants, as well as to get early results of medium and long term initiatives such as full recovery of refrigerants. In particular, with regards to the semiconductor production business, revision of the action plan is aimed for by the end of 1999, based on the agreement by Japan, the United States, Europe and Korea to reduce total emissions of HFCs and other gases by 10% from 1995 levels by 2010. In addition, reviews will be promoted relating to industries which prepare new plans, and industries which have not yet prepared plans will be urged to prepare and publicize them.

Ｂ． Development of Substitute Substances, etc.

With regards to the development of new alternative substances for refrigerants, cleaners and foaming agents, assessments were started for candidate substances which have possible uses. In addition, development was begun for alternative gases and systems for SF6, etc., used in cleaning processes for the production of electronic devices, and technological development was started to continuously recover, destroy, and render harmless HFC-23, a by-product of the manufacture of HCFC-22 in industrial processes. In addition, the following will be implemented: development of alternative gases/systems and alternative processes for etching gases (PFCs) which are used in electronic device production processes, based on feasibility studies to date; testing of technologies for safe and effective HFC, PFC and SF6 destruction and disposal utilizing destruction technology for CFCs and other gases; and technological development relating to building materials that have high insulating ability and which do not use HFCs, etc.

Recovery and destruction tests were conducted, aiming to obtain basic information for a full-scale system for CFC destruction and recovery. Based on these results, discussions were held about HFC recovery, destruction and disposal.

(2) Promotion of Measures to Reduce Methane Emissions

In order to reduce methane emissions, efforts are being made to reduce the volume of garbage going directly into landfills, and in fiscal 1996 the ratio of landfill versus total garbage was about 10%. In addition, in order to achieve reductions in methane emissions from agriculture and livestock industries, measurement methods on methane emissions from paddy fields have been investigated, and research and studies were implemented into livestock management technology. Next steps include reducing the landfill rate to 9% in fiscal 2002. In addition, more work will be done to promote establishment of livestock management technology.

(3) Promotion of Measures to Reduce Nitrous Oxide Emissions

With regards to nitrous oxide emissions from adipic acid production processes, with the installation of removal equipment, emissions have been significantly reduced since March 1999.

Since nitrous oxide emissions are reduced by incineration of sewage sludge, a manual on this topic is being prepared. The “Manual for the Preparation of for Implementation Plans for Sewerage Systems for the Prevention of Global Warming” (provisional title) is expected to be completed during fiscal 1999.

(1) Promotion of Forest Management

In order to promote appropriate Forest Management practices, various types of programmes have been implemented in both private and national forests, for example:

- Erosion Control and Watershed Management;

- Afforestation and Reforestation;

- Forests for Human Welfare, and so on.

Such projects upgraded the capacities of the forests as CO₂ sequestration resources and as carbon reservoirs.

Partnership development has been emphasized with local and urban inhabitants.

(2) Promotion of Urban Greenery

The following were implemented: promotion of greening based on the “Green Plan 2000”; and work projects with improvements of the designated priority green zones based on the priority areas identified in “The master plans of parks and open spaces” prepared by local governments. Next steps include expanding the Priority Greening Area Improvement Projects starting in fiscal 1999 to include the category “Areas for Greening to Mitigate the Urban Heat Island Effect – From the Perspective of Global Warming Prevention” as stipulated in “The master plans of parks and open spaces”.

Construction and transfer programs of green space were implemented in order to prevent pollution. As next steps, the construction and transfer program “green space to abate global warming” will be established, and efforts will be made to improve green spaces on former final waste disposal sites, etc.

Promotion was made of improvements in urban parks, etc., as well as greening along roadways. In addition, green areas and related facilities were constructed in port and harbors. In addition, with regards to implementation of projects to prevent landslides on steep slopes, slope management work to guarantee safety was implemented, keeping the natural environment in mind by leaving existing trees in place, etc. As a next step, with regards to urban parks, etc., improvements will be promoted based on the 6^th Seven year Program for Developing Urban Parks. With regards to roadside greenery, through promoting improvements based on the Road Improvement 5-Year Plan, efforts will be made to achieve 51% greening along roadsides in cities. In addition, by the beginning of the 21^st century, improvements will be made aiming for 5% of land area near ports and harbors to be green spaces. In addition, safe and environment friendly slope management will be promoted through the Fourth Steep Slope Landslide Prevention Project 5 Year Plan by actively introducing green slope treatment methods.

In order to improve the current 13% conversion efficiency of Pphotovoltaics, technological development was conducted for super-efficient photovoltaic power generation. On the utilization technology of supercritical fluids, research and development was conducted at the fundamental level. In addition, technological development was promoted for new steel production processes, next-generation coke production technology, and research and development was promoted for ultra-steel, high-temperature materials, and production technology for coal gas for fuel cells, etc. For the next step, efforts will be made to achieve 30% or greater conversion efficiency in super high-efficiency solar cells.

With regards to technological development relating to CO₂ ocean sequestration, which is implemented for CO₂ sequestration technology, during fiscal 1998 assessments were conducted of releasing CO₂ into the ocean and the deep seabed storage marine methods. Next steps include establishment of techniques to assess impacts on the environment by releasing CO₂ into the oceans or deep seabed storage.

The follow-up of The Basic Plan for Research and Development on Earth Science and Technology was implemented.

Research was implemented relating to development and assessments of the technologies dealing with methane and nitrous oxides.

Research projects concerning global warming, such as Quantitative Evaluation of Climate Change Using Climate and Mass-Transportation Models, and Assessment and Prediction of the Dynamics of Carbon Dioxide in Terrestrial Ecosystems, have been implemented. A Study on Advancement in Prediction Technology for Global Warming and other basic scientific research activities relating to the global change predictions were also carried out.

Development of the Advanced Earth Observing Satellite-II (ADEOS-II) aiming to observe global changes from space and space-borne remote sensors for measuring atmospheric greenhouse gases were carried out. The ADEOS-II is to be launched in fiscal 2000. Development of the space-borne remote sensors to measure atmospheric greenhouse gases is to be continued.

Atmospheric and oceanographic observations including observations of concentrations of greenhouse gases, climate, upper-air and sea-level have been implemented. In addition, through the promotion of services related to collection, management and provision of oceanographic data, and the activities of the WMO World Data Centre for Greenhouse Gases, atmospheric and oceanographic data have been provided to relevant institutions all over the world after collection and quality control/assurance. The Frontier Observational Research System for Global Change was also inaugurated in August 1999.

In order to obtain the precise CO₂–sink/source function of forest ecosystems, five monitoring towers were built in different type forests, nation-wide. A study concerning evaluation of CO₂ fixation capacity of forests was also carried out.

The Global Map Project is proceeding through international cooperation/collaboration in order to contribute to global change issues such as assessment of forest distribution and risk prediction in case of sea level rise. In line with this, development of advanced technologies for utilizing the Global Map is under way. Next steps include preparation of the first edition of the Global Map in fiscal 2000, and an improvement of the distribution system for the Global Map during fiscal 1999.

In order to promote research activities in the Asia-Pacific Region about global environmental problems including global warming, the Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research (APN) Center was newly established in August 1999 as the core institution for APN activities. The APN Strategic Plan was also approved at the intergovernmental meeting in March 1999.

In order to contribute to the elucidation of the global warming phenomena and depletion of the ozone layer, etc., research and development were carried out for the global environment observing technologies utilizing electromagnetic waves (light and radio waves), and for establishing the “Network for Global Environmental Observation and Research Network”. Next steps include improvements in the global environment observing technologies and the data processing/utilizing technologies.

(1) Realizing the Kyoto Initiative

The Government of Japan announced the “Kyoto Initiative” in November 1997, focusing on assisting developing countries in their combat against global warming.

The first part of the program is human resource development. In 1998, the Government of Japan started a five-year plan to train as many as 3,000 experts in fields relating to global warming, and by this plan about 1,100 experts had been trained by the end of fiscal 1998.

The second part of the program is Official Development Assistance Loans (Yen Loans) on the most concessiveconcessional terms (the interest rate of 0.75% and the repayment period of 40 years). Japan has already committed to 22 projects whose total amount is more than two billion dollars.

The third part of the program is the transfer of Japanese technology and know-how.

(2) Technological Contribution by the Climate Technology Initiative

Through climate-change technology initiatives (CTI), international cooperation was carried out in order to develop and diffuse technologies to deal with global warming. In the future, in addition to the development of technology diffusion programs in different regions, such as Asia, Eastern Europe, Central and South America, and Africa, exchanges of R&D will be sought with those countries in the area of technology development.

(3) Finding Possible Joint Projects through Dialogue with Related Countries

In anticipation of joint implementation by developed countries, and in anticipation of the active utilization of Clean Development Mechanisms (CDM) with developing countries, feasibility studies were carried out in some developing countries and Russia, etc. These concerned the possibility of turning projects introducing energy conservation into business enterprises. During fiscal 1998, a total of 63 feasibility studies were carried out, including 20 in Russia and 15 in China.

(1) Stimulating Public Discussion about the Introduction of Daylight Saving Time

In September 1998, the Citizens’ Conference to Think about the Global Environment and Daylight Saving Time was established; and a public consultation was carried out concerning the introduction of daylight saving time and an earth-friendly lifestyle. In May 1999, a report was presented, taking into account consultative meetings and public comments. Based on this report, the Government is going to make the citizens thoroughly familiar with the system. With regard to future legislation, a “federation of House of Councilors members making a study of daylight saving time” is reviewing and preparing for it.

(2) Securing Social Conditions Leading to Promotion of Safe and Appropriate Use of Bicycles

A model business proposal to permit bicycles to be brought into railroad cars has been implemented; and problems areas, solution methods, including ticket fees, rates, safety and operational aspects, etc., have been reviewed. A review will be made of problematic points in the places on the rail line where there would be the most use and of the possibility of establishing a system for the entire area.

The basic direction involves the building of wide walkways, etc. for bicycles and pedestrians, the establishment of bike parking areas at traffic junctions, and the construction of bicycle path networks, all for the safe and smooth utilization of bicycles.

An awareness/intention survey was conducted concerning bike usage. The conditions for promotion of the safe and proper use of bicycles were identified. In the future, the effect of policies and actions, etc. for the promotion of the safe and proper use of bicycles, along with the prospects for actual execution, will be clarified.

(3) Improvement of Structures for Education/Awareness Raising and Information Dissemination

Ａ． Enhancement of education concerning the environment and energy

a. Enhancement of environment and energy education in the schools

By holding seminar meetings for the teachers responsible for environmental education, improvements are sought in their leadership capabilities concerning environment and energy education. Also, the publication and distribution of teaching materials concerning the environment and energy has been carried out in some schools.

A pilot model business was implemented for schools (Eco-schools) which give consideration to environmental subjects such as the use of photovoltaic power generation, tree planting and energy conservation, etc.

Action to use recycled paper for textbooks is being promoted.

b. Enhancement of education concerning the environment and energy, in diverse locations

The projects for “Junior Eco-Club”, with a nationwide membership of 70,000 elementary and junior high school students and supporting adults, was promoted. This year the Club received the United Nations Environment Programme Global 500 Award.

Training of registered members in the Environmental Counselor Register System has been carried out. Furthermore, the nurturing of the Forest Instructors was promoted.

Tours of energy-related facilities, for elementary and junior high school students, were conducted.

Ｂ． Strengthening of Public Relations

a. Improving Public Relations Structure

In November 1998, a logo mark relating to global warming prevention was solicited and decided upon. This is to be used by national and local public organizations, etc.

As an important aspect of public relations, the government, in its publications, has placed emphasis on global warming prevention actions, and has developed PR activities through a wide spectrum of the media such as newspapers, magazines, and television, etc., mainly during Global Warming Prevention Month.

b.Establishing of “Global Warming Prevention Month”

c.In December 1998, the first Global Warming Prevention Month was celebrated. Centering around an international symposium, held in Kyoto on the first anniversary of COP3, PR activities were promoted on a nationwide basis.

Commendation of Efforts of Businesses and Local Authorities

In December 1998, the Minister of the Environment Agency staged an award ceremony in recognition of global warming prevention activities.

In addition to these PR activities for the local and municipal governments and various organizations, which are involved in energy conservation, the Minister of International Trade and Industry Award was given in recognition of particularly excellent contributions.

Ｃ． Promotion of Information Dissemination

a.Promotion of Information Dissemination Relating to Housing and Buildings

By setting forth common rules to establish the description of "performance" for homes (energy conservation performance, etc.), the Law Concerning Promotion of Quality Assurance for Houses, including the establishment of a housing performance description system which enables comparison by consumers, etc., was passed in June 1999. As a next step, appropriate execution of the housing performance description system will be carried out based on that law.

As for structures other than houses, starting in March 1999 the “Environment and Energy Friendly Building Mark” system, which indicates the level of energy conservation performance above a certain standard, was set in place.

b.Promotion of Information Provision in Consumer Products and Automobiles

CHoCO₂, which ranks electrical appliances and vehicles in the order of carbon dioxide emissions, has been prepared and distributed.

A booklet called Comparison Catalog for Energy Conservation-Type Electrical Appliances, which describes the energy consumption efficiency of and the efficient use of each type of civilian-use equipment, has been prepared and distributed through volume discount stores, etc. as well as via the Internet.

"Fuel Efficency" Ranking for Motor Vehicles", which summarizes the emission levels of carbon dioxide and fuel efficiency for automobiles, has been prepared and distributed, including via the Internet, in order to provide up-to-date information and to promote the wider use of lower fuel consumption vehicles.

c.Promotion of Provision of Environmental Information Relating to Manufactured Products, etc.

In the early part of the fiscal 1999 improvements were made, including to the Eco-mark system itself as well as to the incorporation of environmental information, etc.

With the objective of controlling standby electrical consumption for office automation equipment, the International Energy Star program was set in motion.

Reviews of labeling systems as a means to provide energy conservation information and reviews of new environmental labels to describe comprehensive environmental impact were initiated. With the high volume of energy consumption in mind, a review should be conducted concerning the introduction of this system to electrical appliances; and preparation of a manual to introduce environmental labels should be planned.

d.Promotion of Provision of Information about CFC Alternatives, etc. (HFC, PFC, and SF6).

During Ozone Layer Protection Promotion Month, in September, public awareness raising was carried out with respect to the need for action to control the emissions of HFC, etc., along with the protection of the ozone layer. In addition, information concerning CFC recovery systems was widely disseminated.

Ｄ． Upgrading Awareness Raising of Public Participation Styles

In June 1998, the National Convention for the Promotion of Environmental Household Accounting was held, and actual examples of environmental household accounting were introduced. Discussions were held concerning how to practice environment-friendly lifestyles.

In order to promote the "Stop Idling Campaign" and "Eco Drive Campaign", the distribution of pamphlets and stickers, presentation of a Minister of Transport Award, promotion at the Low-emission Vehicle Fair, and PR activities in the Air Pollution Control Promotion Month, were performed.

In February 1999, in order to establish new energy conserving lifestyles (with the slogan "smart life"), ideas for "smart fashion" designs were solicited from the general public, and these were exhibited along with a contest named "Smart Collection 1999". In the future, in addition to the apparel sector, the establishment of "smart life" will be promoted in the food, housing, and educational fields.

(4) Exemplary Actions by Government

In addition to the launching of environment-friendly government buildings and facilities (with the slogan "Green Government Buildings"), the government has introduced solar energy generation systems to some government buildings.

A natural gas filling station for vehicles has been set up in the Kasumigaseki area (central Government district), both for greater convenience for government-owned cars and in order to introduce the use of low-emission cars for government vehicles.

A lighter dress code has been introduced for July and August each year.

The first Monday of each month has been designated as "no car day," in order to decrease the use of government vehicles.

A refrigerator/freezer which uses non-CFC refrigerant and insulation has been introduced. At the time of contracting for the construction of public buildings and facilities, including government buildings, estimates are to includie the costs of recovering CFC refrigerants from air conditioning equipment, in order to make sure that the refrigerant is retrieved when equipment is discarded. Recovery of CFC refrigerants will be further enforced. When equipment is newly installed or to be replaced, equipment having less of an impact on global warming will be sought. Further, concerning aerosol-type products, including “dust blowers”, the procurement of non-CFC products will be enforced.

(5) Expansion of Greening Activities as Measures to Prevent Global Warming

As part of the national land greening campaign, centering mainly around Green Week (from April 23 to 29), greening activities were introduced in order to diffuse the concept of participating in the creation of forests, woodlands, and green spaces. A radio campaign celebrating the third anniversary of the enactment of the Contribution to Greening Law solicited, 2.24 billion-yen. In addition to diffusing greening techniques, including the use of tree doctors, forest and woodland creation activities involving the citizenry, such as the use of "greenery youth groups", were promoted.

In order to raise awareness for greening, A spring urban-greenery promotion campaign was held from April to June; and an Urban Greenery Month was held in October.

Nearby natural spaces (biotopes) which a variety of living creatures can inhabit were created. Also, the “Kodomo Happa Hanteishi” (Children’s Leaf Judge) activity has been carried out by elementary and junior high school students. The aim of this activity is to raise children’s interest in air quality or global warming, through studying the absorption level of carbon dioxide by trees.

(6) Implementation of Model Projects which lead to Innovation in Social Systems

・The following model projects were implemented during fiscal 1998;

- Regional promotional model projects for preventing global warming

- Subsidy projects, including the introduction of the large-scale and concentrated use of new energies

- Model projects for promoting the use of bicycles, through improving bicycle networks

- Model projects to promote town-building planning involving the use of bicycles

- Model projects for "telework" utilizing telecommunications and information

- Model projects for designing regional illumination environment plans to rationalize nighttime lighting

- Establishment of model planning using woodlands belonging to schools as fields of greening activities for young people

- Model enterprises using forest and woodland regeneration systems

- Societal experimentation with flex-time