The Japan Meteorological Agency plans to provide information on harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that reach the earth's surface in increasing quantity due to the depletion of the ozone layer. The information will be used to predict UV intensities and tackle problems such as damage to human health, effects on ecosystems, and deterioration of building materials.

The agency will collect real-time data on the rays and provide forecasts and information on actual conditions to the public. This information will help people determine the appropriate actions for sun protection, including the amount of time outdoors, the choice of clothing, and the wearing of hats and sunglasses. The forecasts will be clearly shown on a map of Japan with UV index values indicated by colors representing intensity.

In the budget request to the Ministry of Finance for fiscal 2004, the agency has asked for 140 million yen (about U.S.$1.26 million) for monitoring equipment.



Posted: 2004/01/03 11:35:04 AM
Japanese version

TAG Ecosystem , Global warming , Government , Other