## ○Developing logistics systems for recyclable resources

The MLIT recently designated 21 Recycle Ports nationwide, and is deliberating upon the development of an appropriate and efficient international logistics network for recyclable resources.

In June 2007, the Port and Harbor Law and the Law Concerning Port Construction for the Development of Hokkaido were partly amended so that the national budget would bear an increased proportion of the cost of promoting the sea surface waste disposal facilities used to facilitate the formation of recycling communities and to continue appropriate final disposal of waste.

## ○Recycling of vehicles and FRP boats

The promotion of proper disposal and the prevention of illegal dumping is being addressed by the implementation of deletion registrations under the Road Transport Vehicle Law and the vehicle tonnage tax reimbursement scheme. The recycling of FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) boats has been put into practice across the country with the support of the MLIT.

## ○Promoting procurement of materials contributing to the reduction of environmental load

The MLIT is promoting green procurement efforts and the wider use of wood materials in public works projects as well as the dissemination of wooden houses.

Effects of Venous Logistic Bases at Ports and the Formation of Their Network

(1) Development of a recycling community through enhanced recycling of resources throughout the country

(2) Reduction of environmental load through the use of maritime transport

(3) Networking of recycling facility locations in expanded regions and reduction of recycling costs through the use of maritime transport

(4) Revitalization and activation of industries in coastal areas through acceptance of recycling facilities

## (3) Conserving and regenerating a beautiful and abundant natural environment

## ○Development of a beautiful and abundant fluvial environment

The MLIT is promoting the development and conservation of a sound riparian environment and the restoration of river water as well as the comprehensive maintenance of earth and sand covering the areas from mountains to beaches. The ministry is also promoting education concerning fluvial environments.

## ○ Maintenance and conservation of beach and coastal area environments

It is necessary to protect beach areas from high waters, tsunamis and ocean waves while at the same time securing areas for the inhabitation and growth of life forms, maintaining scenic beauty and ensuring the proper use of beaches. The MLIT is promoting the maintenance and preservation of beaches by sustaining balance among “protection,” the “environment” and the “use” thereof.

## ○Greening of port administration

The MLIT’s fundamental policy on port administration is to aim for the development and utilization of ports as well as the preservation, restoration and creation of their environments. The ministry will also promote the review and enhancement of environmental policy measures that will include the maintenance of an ocean environment database where administrative agencies, research laboratories and citizens will share and coordinate the oceanic environmental data they collect and manage respectively.

## Promotion of the greening of roads and measures for natural environments

The greening of roads will be promoted to reduce environmental load and create beautiful scenic views. The MLIT will aim at