On April 10, 2026, Japan Ministry of the Environment announced that the Cabinet approved a bill to partially amend the Act on Waste Disposal and Cleaning, with plans to submit it to the 221st session of the National Diet. The proposed amendments aim to strengthen environmental and public health protections by introducing stricter regulations on scrap yard operators handling used metal and plastic waste. The bill establishes a permit system for such businesses, mandates compliance with storage and recycling standards, and requires that potentially polluting materials be recycled domestically in principle, with export subject to confirmation by the Minister of the Environment. In addition, the bill introduces measures to improve the management of disaster waste. These include requirements for municipalities to develop disaster waste disposal plans, promote agreements with private operators, and designate landfill sites for emergency waste. It also expands the role of Japan Environmental Storage & Safety Corporation (JESCO) to support the handling of disaster waste, enhancing national preparedness and coordination. The legislation is intended to address environmental issues such as noise, water pollution, and fire risks associated with scrap yards, while also strengthening Japan's capacity for efficient and timely disaster waste management. The enforcement dates will be set by Cabinet Order, with provisions coming into force within specified periods after promulgation.
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