Kawasaki: Transforming from heavy polluter into environmental legend

Kawasaki is a famous heavy-industry base in Japan. During its long struggle against pollution, the city accumulated abundant experience and developed advanced eco-technology.

Now, Kawasaki is transforming itself from a heavy polluter into a leading model of environmental protection.

In the 1970's, Kawasaki suffered severe industrial pollution. The health of the city's people was threatened. Many citizens had chronic bronchitis and asthma.

The Kawasaki Thermal Power Plant was among the worst the polluters. To reduce pollution, the plant continuously updated equipment and technology. The fuel changed from coal to crude oil, then to liquefied natural gas.

In 2007, the plant closed its last old thermal power units. New units are equipped with the most advanced technology in the world. The usage of fuel and emissions are both cut by 25 percent.

Despite many factories still in heavy industries, like refining and electrical, Kawasaki ranks first in Japan, its emissions account for only 2.2% of the country's total.

With coordinated efforts from enterprises and the government, Kawasaki is a legend of environmental protection.