Initiatives

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is promoting technical cooperation in the environmental field with Beijing based on the “Agreement on Technical Exchange and Technical Cooperation between Tokyo and Beijing” concluded in September 2009. In fiscal 2015, a mutual technical exchange regarding PM2.5 measures and VOC measures was held for about one month between the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Environmental Protection and the Beijing Municipal Research Institute of Environmental Protection. Since then, technical exchanges have been held every year, and in fiscal 2020, it was held for two days from March 11 to 12. Before this, researcher exchanges have been carried out by visiting China or Japan. However, this year it was held as an online conference in light of the situation due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. The researchers from the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Environmental Protection opened proceedings with a report on the survey results of VOC emissions from livingware in Tokyo and the latest research results on emissions of BVOC (Biogenic volatile organic compounds). The researchers from the Beijing Municipal Research Institute of Environmental Protection reported on support for plants to reduce VOC emissions under the policy of “One Plant One Policy,” and VOC risk assessment around the petrochemical complex. The participants were able to share their best practices and knowledge, and actively exchange opinions to resolve issues common to both the cities of Tokyo and Beijing.