Author(s)

A Kusumi

Abstract

Decision making in corporate environmental management in Japan: realization potential for the zero-emission A. Kusumi Faculty of Liberal Arts, Chukyo University, Japan. Abstract This research aims at analyzing decision-making systems that provide for zero- emission, and at proposing measures that promote zero-emissions to those corporations that have not adopted them yet. First, extensive interviews were conducted at six corporations, followed by brainstorming sessions. \“Reducing environmental loads”, \“Cutting costs”, \“Corporate image”, \“Shortage of landfill” and \“Competition” emerged as the major decision-making factors. Each factor’s relative importance is derived from the pair-wise comparison in the questionnaire surveys. \“Minimizing environmental loads” emerged as the most dominant. Second, zero-emission promotion measures are proposed based on the outcome above. Their effectiveness levels are estimated by questionnaires. Finally, promotion measures, such as legal regulation, subsidization and taxation, which directly lead to the implementation of zero- emission, were rated as the most effective. 1 Introduction It is the author’s stance that a societal reformation is urgently needed for Japan to become a recycle-oriented society. Rooted in this belief, the present study focuses on zero-emission type corporate projects that minimize waste (hereinafter referred to as zero-emission), as a means to minimise overall environmental loads. This type of projects was chosen for a variety of reasons. First, because large corporations seem to shape societal changes in Japan in a driving-force fashion. Second, because zero-emissions are generally accepted as a comprehensive means to reduce waste. Third, because zero-emission is a

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