Thirteen 'Biomass Towns' Designated

On 30 March, 2005, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries made its second announcement concerning the "Biomass Town" concept, which identifies municipalities that deal comprehensively and appropriately with local biomass resources from generation to utilization. Eight municipalities were identified this time, bringing the total so far to 13, including the 5 announced on 10 Feb. this year.
Since August 27, 2004 the Ministry has been publicly inviting municipalities that actively and appropriately produce and use biomass fuels to apply for "Biomass Town" designation.

Entries are examined for conformity to standards set by the Biomass Japan Comprehensive Strategy Promotion Council, established by the Cabinet Office and six other concerned Ministries, including the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. Once conformity is established, the information is shared among the Ministries that can help establish an environment for the Biomass Town to promote active participation by local citizens, a main catalyst for further development. The Council also posts the information on a Biomass Information Headquarters website, to introduce the ways the town creates and uses biomass, helping promote networking among people engaged in biomass production and utilization all over Japan.

The Ministry plans to increase Biomass Town designations to 500 by 2010.



Posted: 2005/07/12 06:23:24 AM
Japanese version