Stylish new sports complex in Saga, Japan, almost completely powered from burnable garbage.
Some years ago, largely due to putting economic development before good housekeeping, Japan probably had a poor reputation when it came to the environment. And it was deserved, what with Minimata, and the condition of air and water around large cities like Tokyo. But in recent times, that reputation has been turned around. Japan played a strong leadership role at the Kyoto conference, it is at the forefront of hybrid car development, and has instigated programs that have reduced its domestic pollution considerably. And it has become a significant player in recycling technology.
At a local level, here in Saga, we have the benefit of a concerted recycling effort. Not only do we have a sophisticated separation and recycling program, but what burnable waste we do have to get rid of has been turned into a very useful energy source. The program is experimental, but so far is working well, and will serve as a model for many other municipalities across Japan, and overseas.
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