Protecting the Global Environmen
Energy-efficient, Environmental Technologies

(1)

Some global problems can be alleviated through the development and use of innovative non-polluting technologies, and by transferring these technologies to where they are needed. We are therefore formulating and implementing joint projects to develop energy-efficient, environmental technologies, making good use of the positive results already achieved through Japan-U.S. cooperation in other projects.

(2)

In April 1994, both Governments concluded the Implementation Agreement on Research and Development of Innovative Environmental Technologies, on the basis of the Japan-U.S. Science and Technology Agreement. This development has led to a decision to adopt an implementation plan for research on global warming.

(3)

The Climate Technology Initiative (CTI) promotes the development and use of technologies that reduce carbon dioxide emissions, a goal set by the Climate Change Convention. The Initiative calls for governments and private enterprises to collaborate in the adopting of non-polluting, highly cost-efficient technologies, and promotes the establishment and improvement of related information networks. Three Initiative meetings have been held to date, and research reports have been issued.

(4)

Maps of the entire world using a single standard would be very helpful in protecting the global environment and ensuring sustainable development. Towards this end, scientists are using the latest measurement technologies to collect data on world vegetation, land use, elevation, etc. The data is then collated and provided to those needing such geographical information. In February 1996, we agreed on establishment of the International Steering Committee for Global Mapping, and made arrangements for its first meeting.