Environmental Challenges in Japan and Potential Solutions
Japan is well-known for its strong economy and high living standards, making it one of the world’s leading developed countries. However, it may shock some that this country still battles negative climate change and environmental pollution.
Unfortunately, these environmental issues have begun creating an indelible mark on the country’s health and economy. And maybe that’s not the worst part. The worst part of it all is that although Japan has lofty climate goals, there’s been almost insignificant progress, making their feasibility questionable.
Of course, Japan’s current environmental challenges can easily be overcome with long-term planning and aggressive policy execution. However, progress is much slower than normal due to the country’s political economy.
That said, let’s examine some of the country’s current climate crises and their possible solutions.
Current Climate Crisis Affecting Japan
Here are a few examples of the most impactful environmental challenges plaguing the country:
Poor Air Quality
This is the biggest environmental issue in Japan, which is notorious for being one of the most air-polluted countries worldwide. Poor air quality is very common in urban areas due to increased industrial activity and greenhouse emissions. Also, trans-border pollution from neighboring countries doesn’t help the situation.
Analysts believe that many deaths in the country can be traced to air pollution, and the numbers keep rising each year. For instance, according to WHO, over 38,000 deaths that occur yearly in Japan are a direct result of air pollution. The nature of these deaths may vary from stroke to respiratory infections to lung cancer and heart disease, implying the high-risk nature of the poor air quality.
Water Pollution and Overfishing
Japan also battles water pollution due to improper waste disposal, household sewage, waste liquids, etc. This affects not only rivers and lakes but also underground water and freshwater reservoirs. As a result, there’s been a serious shortage of clean water supply in certain areas, which may become even more severe in the future. There’s also an increased tendency for severe health problems to result from water pollution.
As if water pollution was not enough, the country also suffers from overfishing. Due to decades of unsustainable fishing practices, Japan’s fisheries were exploited, drastically reducing fish stock replenishment rates. This means that as time goes by, there will be an even greater shortage of aquatic life caused by overfishing.
Bad Waste Management
For a long-standing issue, one would think Japan should have found a way around it. Unfortunately, they haven’t, and bad waste management keeps wrecking more havoc.
Most developed countries use vast landfill spaces to suppress the effects of waste products, but Japan has limited landfill space. As a result, the country relies on waste incineration, which consequently releases hazardous greenhouse gases and pollutants.
Possible Solutions to These Environmental Challenges
Japan already has environmental protection policies at the national level, but those are not enough to combat the climate crisis threatening the nation. Here are some aggressive solutions that, if executed right, have the potential to subdue Japan’s environmental challenges.
Long-Term Planning and Increased Focus On Renewable Energy
One major challenge Japan has yet to address is poor long-term planning. Yes, climate change may be a global issue, but the country’s policies only aim to solve immediate climate issues instead of providing long-lasting solutions.
Furthermore, the country needs to shift its focus to renewable energy sources like water, wind, solar, and geothermal. Implementing this could reduce carbon emissions and help to mitigate global warming.
Better Water Management and Quota-Based Fishing
Thanks to the Industrial Waste and Water Pollution Control Law, Japan’s water quality has improved, even if slightly. However, there’s still a need for more stringent measures, such as wastewater treatment, bioremediation solutions, and proper disposal of waste.
The country must impose and encourage quota-based fishing laws and other sustainable fishing practices to address overfishing. Providing an alternative source of fish and seafood will also reduce the need for wild-caught fish.
Improved Recycling Systems
Recycling is the best way to divert waste from landfills and incineration. This is why the Japanese government needs to expand and improve recycling facilities that separate and collect recyclables. They should also implement regulations that hold manufacturers responsible for the end-of-life disposal of their products.
Last Words
Having said all, it’s left to the powers that be to adopt these practices to mitigate the impact of environmental issues in Japan. Remember, long-term planning and providing long-lasting solutions are the best ways to battle these ecological challenges.
