“YOKKAICHI Studies” Learned from the YOKKAICHI Air Pollution for Environmental Policy and International Environmental Cooperation in Asia

Abstract

“YOKKAICHI Studies” is a study that can be approached by four (4) aspects as follows: Firstly, it is a “Human Science” that investigates ownership of the dignity of life and nature—implying that the YOKKAICHI Air Pollution is not a problem that had already been solved, but rather an ongoing environmental issue. Secondly, it is a “Sustainable Futurology” that proposes a sustainable social system that strikes the balance between the environment and the economy in order to transform the former polluted YOKKAICHI City into a future environmental conservation city. Thirdly, it serves as a tool or blueprint for future generations (those who did not experience the Yokkaichi pollution) under the auspices of “UNESCO ESD-UNSDGs” to employ as a benchmark to develop global human resources. And lastly, it emphasizes the subject of ‘‘Environment and Asia” in the twenty-first century. In other words, in anticipating the occurrence of pollutions and other environmental issues in large industrial complexes in Asian countries during this era, the YOKKAICHI Studies was therefore defined as “Asian Studies”—dedicated to international environmental cooperation. To solve the transboundary air pollutions, such as yellow dust and PM2.5, it is expected of the leadership of Asia to demonstrate their know-how-based knowledge and determination to overcome among others the Yokkaichi air pollution and other environmental issues by engaging in an international environmental cooperation for action.