2018

Mr. Ishikawa: I noticed in a pamphlet issued by Chitose City that one of the issues the city is addressing is creating an environment that is people- and earth-friendly. What specific measures are being taken?

Mr. Shimakura: In 2012, the city issued an environmental declaration in the mayor's name and established basic principles and action guidelines. Based on this, the city established a unique environmental management system known as "Eco-Action" and is taking measures to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. To expand these initiatives to business sites, we established ECO Chitose, our version of an environmental management system certification program. More than 60 business sites have obtained certification and measures are being taken throughout the city.

Mr. Ishikawa: We look forward to your cooperation in the future.

Mr. Sakai: I have one request relating to the environment. In the semiconductor industry, it is necessary to continuously cool clean rooms using air conditioning. The temperature in Chitose City is low, and this is extremely beneficial, but even so, a considerable amount of electric power is needed. Electric rates in Hokkaido are high compared to other regions, and this is a disadvantage for us. We are in negotiations with Hokkaido Electric Power, but I believe that the circumstances will change if there were more companies that require large amounts of electric power such as other companies in the semiconductor industry, and therefore, I would like the city to make efforts to attract more companies. I believe that this will lead to the further invigoration of Chitose City and Hokkaido.