Employers in Britain are being urged to adopt a casual clothing campaign like Japan's "Cool Biz" for summer.
The Trades Union Congress, which represents Britain's unions, is calling on companies to allow staff to ditch their jackets and ties as Britain swelters in a heat wave.
The Japanese government-led "Cool Biz" campaign is now in its second year. Spearheaded by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, the program promotes casual wear in the workplace to reduce the power consumption of air conditioners.
Because the campaign claims to have cut carbon dioxide emissions, the TUC is promoting its benefits for Britain.