Tokyo Gov't Launches Web-Based Reporting on Industrial Waste Emitters

On February 1, 2006, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government started releasing information by Internet on industrial waste emitters, such as construction companies and hospitals, and on their initiatives for proper waste disposal. Reports from waste disposal contractors have been made public starting in December 2005. This information disclosure is mandated under the "System of Reports and Public Announcements on Industrial Waste," which aims to ensure proper industrial waste management, and is based on the Tokyo Industrial Waste Ordinance revised in September 2005.

The new rules cover designated waste emitters, such as construction companies with capital exceeding 300 million yen (US$2.56 million), factories that employ 300 workers or more, and hospitals. The items to be included are as follows: (1) basic framework and organizational systems for the reduction of waste quantity and the proper waste disposal; (2) measures adopted to ensure that subcontractors deal properly with waste consigned to them; namely, criteria on choosing subcontractors, methods to confirm how they maintain proper disposal, and payment conditions, (3) waste recycling ratio and what materials and products are made from recycled waste, (4) how waste generators are reusing recycled materials and products, and (5) how information is disclosed on the Web and in environmental reports.

The Tokyo Government is determined to ensure that this system is fully observed by companies and organizations generating industrial waste. To prevent illegal waste dumping, the government will conduct on-site inspections more frequently than in the past. By taking these measures, it aims to eradicate the illegal dumping of industrial waste and ensure that waste is disposed properly.



Posted: 2006/05/14 10:00:53 PM
Japanese version