Search

The article presents information about Kyoto Protocol, a convention for environmental protection reached by various countries in the Kyoto city of Japan. The Kyoto Protocol has only just come into force, but its 2012 expiration date already looms large on the horizon. A successor agreement faces some formidable political obstacles. Negotiations on Kyoto II are due to begin at the eleventh meeting of the parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Montreal in November, 2004. Climate science, and the tools that researchers can use to detect global change, have advanced significantly since 1997, when the Kyoto Protocol was negotiated.

The article discusses the issues to be raised at the 2008 Group of Eight (G8) Summit in Hokkaido, Japan in July 2008. Accordingly, the meeting, which has been expanded to include the Major Economies Meeting on Energy Security and Climate Change, will consider climate change as its main focus, while global food shortage and nuclear nonproliferation are only secondary in the agenda. However, it notes that the increasing oil prices could possibly overshadow talks on climate change. Further details on other problems to be addressed are presented.

Reports that proposed legislation in Japan to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions has been criticized for lacking measures to ensure compliance by industry. Bill drawn up by the Environment Agency; Requirements of bill; Views of environment minister Hiroshi Oki; Significance of the bill; Those resisting the bill.

Discusses issues related to the December, 1997 United Nations climate convention at Kyoto, Japan. Goal of a new legally binding treaty to reduce anthropogenic greenhouse-gas emissions; Key issue of willingness of governments to set aside differences; Perspectives of various governments; Japan's consensual approach; Developing-country participation; Idea of per-capita emissions.

Reports that many of Japan's major companies and economic organizations have agreed to contribute a total of $400 million for the establishment of a new research institute for environmental technology. The Research Institute of Innovative Technology for the Earth will be located at Kansai science city.

Reveals that the Japanese government has adopted a program containing two different targets for limiting carbon dioxide emissions by the year 2000. Ministry on International Trade and Industry and the Environmental Agency both have ambitious goals.

Reports on both praise and criticism from various organizations over Japan's handling of global environmental issues. Useful technology; Environmental destruction in developing countries.

Reports on budget proposals by Japan's ministries and agencies for research related to the global environment. Establishment of new research centers; Cost; Plans.