Search

Japan has been a key player in the global competition based on scientific and technological innovation. Through a series of Science and Technology Basic Plans, the national government sought to restructure the country's approach to scientific and technological development, with initiatives ranging from a fundamental restructuring of public universities to major investments in regional clusters. Collaboration with business has likewise been a centerpiece of the Japan strategy, as has high level political leadership of the broad initiative. This paper examines the international and national context of Japanese innovation, outlines the core elements of the Japanese innovation strategy, and provides preliminary observations about the first decade of the country's extensive efforts to establish Japan as a global leader in the commercialization of science and technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the initiatives of the city governments in Osaka and Kitakyushu, Japan to improve their local economic conditions and protect the environment. The two cities have made large investment in scientific technologies to be able to reach their goal of economic growth tied with environmental management. The initiatives include the passage of pollution control laws, waste management improvement, recycling and increased public awareness on health effects of pollution. The success of the two cities highlights their role in influencing other countries to prioritize environmental sustainability with economic development strategy.