都市環境保全における情報の役割に関する一考察-都市の廃棄物と情報技術(IT)を事例として-

抄録

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between IT (Information Technology) and environmental preservation in the Tokyo metropolitan area. In recent years, the amount of waste has increased mainly in urban areas of OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) member countries. It is said that IT can realize economic growth without inflation. It is also considered to reduce uncertainties or risks, resulting in economic efficiency and benefits.
The collected data show changes in the economic structure of the Tokyo metropolitan area; the share of service-oriented industries, such as business services and information processing, has increased in the past 20 years. It is clear that the role of IT has become more important than ever. Since the adoption of the PPP (Pollutant Payment Principle) policy, all members of the community, such as firms, households and government, have started using IT for the reduction of the amount of waste disposed. It is considered that IT plays an important role in reducing the amount of waste disposed. This study examines the relationship between the amount of municipal waste disposed and IT, using an econometric approach.
The following conclusions were reached:
(1) Economic activities and increase in the number of residents lead to an increase in the amount of waste disposed.
(2) IT is effective in reducing the amount of waste disposed.