The next 100 years have been dubbed the century of the environment. While this pronouncement may be a bit premature, even inflated, it reflects the swelling interest in environmental issues. From global warming and dioxins, recycling and waste disposal, environmental problems are making more headlines.
If ever a country were ripe to turn green -- politically speaking, at least -- it would be Japan. Social values are shifting from material considerations to quality of life concerns, say scholars. Surveys show a majority of citizens are concerned about the environment. Corporations strive to meet international environmental standards to add to their public-relations efforts to spin greener images. Even the government is on the move: It is preparing to turn the Environment Agency into a ministry early next year.
But what about politics? Do changing values and growing environmental interest portend the arrival of Green parties?