The Economics of Waste and Pollution Management in Japan

The main objective of this volume is to clarify problems associated with waste and pollution by investigating a wide spectrum of issues, from global warming to regionally based pollution caused by waste disposal. Included are aspects ranging from domestic waste production to technologically generated waste resulting from the production, circulation, and consumption of industrial goods and services. A secondary objective is to use the methodology of political economy to suggest technical solutions to waste and pollution problems while evaluating the social reforms that may be required. This methodology also uses historical analysis to put current problems into a broader perspective that may offer clues to their solution. In addition, experience with similar problems in Europe and the United States is examined and its relevance to Asia is discussed. Eight related chapters deal with waste and pollution issues affecting the global community in general and Japan in particular