Japanese experiences in water pollution control and wastewater treatment technologies

The history of water pollution control and environmental management in Japan is outlined. Particular attention is paid to Minamata disease and other impacts of industrial pollution, and the consequent development of environmental legislation. The growth of sewerage systems and more recently of wastewater and sludge reuse are noted, before considering the application of the concept of life cycle assessment, which is increasingly central to the minimisation of environmental impacts.