Japanese Bureaucrats Asked To "Be Cool"
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 06. 2.05
Japanese bureaucrats are being asked to take off their dark gray jackets and ties as part of a "Cool Biz" campaign promoted by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi. The goverment is promoting casual attire for summer, in an attempt to combat global warming. The new dress code, which is not mandatory, is being pushed so thermostats in government offices can be set at 28°C (82° F), even in summer.
This will reduce electricity use and help reduce carbon dioxide emissions in order to meet Japan's obligations for the Kyoto Protocol on global warming. The casual look may also benefit women, many of whom complain about air conditioning being too cold because they are usually set to meet the needs of men wrapped in suits. :: The Japan Times story
