Environment,Technology and The Japanese Experience: Lessons for Developing Countries from International Collaborative Research

Abstract

During the post-World War II period, Japan experienced rapid industrializa tion and economic growth. This was, however, associated with severe envi ronmental pollution with occasionally catastrophic ecological and societal repercussions. Recent years have seen a significant shift in the country's environmental policies, and a cleaning up of the environment based on leg islative and technological innovations. Japan now considers itself a leader in environmental technology and endeavors to promote this role international ly. Lessons from research carried out under the auspices of the United Nations University point to the need to assist developing countries to invest in environmental protection in order to avoid the negative repercussions of economic growth associated with Japan's past development. It is also impor tant to encourage technology cooperation and capacity building based on the needs of the recipient.