Helping Rebuild Iraq

In the aftermath of Iraq conflict, Japan is playing an important role in reconstruction efforts. A major contributor to the international reconstruction fund, Japan recently chaired a donor conference held in Tokyo, and provides direct humanitarian assistance, including a contingent of Self-Defense Force troops, Japanese NPOs and private groups are also active in helping Iraqi society recover and rebuild.

Turning Plastic into Soil

Plastic is an amazingly convenient material, but its widespread use is causing many disposal problems. New landfill sites for the indestructible material are hard to find, and incineration releases toxic gases. Plastic's raw material, oil, is also becoming scarce. New types of biodegradable plastics made from renewable vegetable resources promise to provide a solution to these problems.

Coming Soon - EXPO 2005

EXPO 2005 opens from March in Aichi, Japan. With the theme "Nature's Wisdom" it will feature new ideas for living in harmony with nature. From the site itself, designed for minimum disturbance of the countryside, to the recyclable construction materials and the non-polluting maglev shuttle train, there has never been a more eco-friendly Expo. Pavilion construction has already progressed to the point where participants are installing their exhibits.