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Battle For The Planet |
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It’s the US vs. Japan in an environmental slugfest.
Here’s how it’s shaking down and 5 Ways you can help. |
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by E.B. Boyd |
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With Earth Day around the corner
(April 22!), now’s
a good time to size up the environment—specifically, how Japan and the United States compare to each other on all things ecological.
Japan skipped ahead of the US in its commitment to reverse global warming by signing the Kyoto Protocol, the primary international agreement on fighting climate change (the US declined to sign). Japan is a leader in other areas, too, like recycling, solar power, and fuel-efficient cars. The US and Japan both struggle with how to reduce plastic consumption, especially plastic bags, and neither competes with Europe when it comes to keeping potentially harmful substances out of cosmetics and personal-care products.
We compare what strides both Japan and the US have made
to reduce their country’s environmental impact. Japan was the
clear winner this time around, but if you follow our helpful tips,
you can give the US (not to mention the planet) a solid chance at
a comeback.
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One Word:
Plastic
Out in the Pacific Ocean, between Japan and the west coast of the United States, is an area the size of Texas called the “Great Pacific Garbage Patch.” It’s a vortex of plastic and other trash, trapped in a swirling mess by ocean currents. The garbage patch is an example of how dangerous humans’ massive use of plastic is to the planet. Plastic not only pollutes the environment but also breaks down into tiny pieces that fish and other sea creatures eat. And those plastic-infused sea creatures eventually make their way onto our dinner plates. Yuck!
The problem has gotten so bad that some countries now tax the use of plastic bags. In Ireland, for example, most people began bringing reusable bags to the grocery store after a law was passed requiring a 33-cent surcharge for every plastic bag. Americans contribute to the problem by throwing away 100 billion bags every year. Some cities, including San Francisco and Oakland, have banned the use of the bags by chain supermarkets and drug stores. And other cities, like New York, are considering a bag tax. Some cities, in contrast, dismiss such measures as ridiculous.
Japan also struggles with bag use. People there use about 30 billion bags per year. But Japan’s desire to do right by the environment is at odds with its gift-giving customs, which place a strong emphasis on wrapping. And the issue isn’t restricted to birthday parties—traditionally, the Japanese think it’s good manners to wrap even the most basic items. As a result, some stores go so far as to place individual items, like soda bottles and sandwiches, in separate bags, and then wrap them together in a third bag. Still, the country recognizes the problem, and the government has strongly requested that stores try to cut down on the number of bags they use.
You Can Help!
Whenever possible, try not to use a plastic bag for your purchases. Small items can go into your pocket. Bigger items can go into your purse or book bag. You can also try carrying a Chico Bag (chicobag.com) with you for larger purchases. Chico Bags are small nylon bags that roll up into tiny stuff sacks, making them look like chibi sleeping bags. They’re lightweight and take up very little room.
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"Battle For The Planet" has been edited for shojobeat.com;
the complete article appears in the March 2009 issue of Shojo Beat Magazine. |
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Want more articles like this PLUS six of the most addictive shojo manga from Japan delivered to your doorstep every month—before they hit the newsstands? Click here to subscribe now! |
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