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Japan to Promote "Warm Biz" Look to Save Energy |
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| JAPAN: August 23, 2005 | ||
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TOKYO - Spurred by the success of a "Cool Biz" campaign this summer that encouraged men to dress down to save energy, Japan plans to continue conservation efforts this fall and winter by promoting "Warm Biz" fashion.
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Government workers and politicians, known for conservative fashions, have been encouraged to leave off coats and ties between June 1 and Sept. 30 so that air conditioner thermostats can be set higher to help fight global warming. From Oct. 1, however, public sector thermostats will be turned down to 20 C (68 F) and workers urged to layer up. "There are various combinations of dress that we envision, but thermal underwear is definitely going to be crucial," an official at the Environment Ministry said. The wearing of waistcoats, turtleneck sweaters and thick socks would also be encouraged, he added. "There's no doubt that 20 C is a bit chilly, so if people don't really take care to keep warm, they could become uncomfortable." Aside from its potential contribution to energy saving, "Cool Biz" sparked a boom in June clothing sales that pushed up overall retail sales for the month as workers sought out casual clothing. People interviewed by NHK national television gave the new proposal mixed reviews, with several saying they supported the idea of saving energy but others worrying about the cost. "If we have to wear things like waistcoats all winter, this is going to take a lot of money," one young man said.
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REUTERS NEWS SERVICE
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