COOL BIZ initiative makes a statement on Japanese dress code & environment

24 May '05

2 min read

If shedding a few thousand ties makes the environment better, then so be it!

As part of the Government promoted COOL BIZ initiative, during the period June 1 and Sept. 30 (except during official functions) employees will be allowed to go with neckties and jackets "off".

Shedding ties and jackets will save energy through reduced use of air conditioner and take care of the green house effects.

This was announced by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi on Thursday last, to reduce the emission of green hous gasses by less than six percent as per Kyoto Protocol.

The initiative COOL BIZ was meant to reduce the usage of airconditioners and removal of a jacket and necktie would results in a 2-degree reduction in the heat felt by the body. Thus, an individuals comfort in a room where the air conditioning is set at 28 is maintained.

Meanwhile, apparel firms have registred increase in the demand for casual wear among young men in their 20's and 30's.

The Japanese Environment Ministry in a bid to change the attitude has gone to the extent of holding a fashion show featuring businesswear bereft of neckties, inviting respected industry titans feature therein.

The show, World Exposition, will feature clothes designed by Hiroko Koshino and Takeo Kikuchi and will be held at the Aichi Prefecture on June 5.

Toyota Motor Corp. Chairman Hiroshi Okuda, who is also head of the Japan Business Federation, will catwalk as model with many others.
many others.

Even fashion designer Ikeda has acknowledged that a necktie and jacket can provide an aura of dignity, pride and trustworthiness.

However, even without a necktie, provided an effort is made to look elegant and intellectual can create the necessary impact, he argued.

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