Even as Japan and the rest of Asia has experienced rapid economic growth for the past several decades, environmental problems have also intensified throughout the region. We at ASAP21 aim to protect the Asia Pacific ecosystem through sustainable environmental measures. As part of our efforts, we are establishing a strong and active network with NGO throughout the region in order to promote more effective measures.
| 1999@ | |
| Feb. | @Earth Day 2000 Japan International Team, the predecessor of ASAP21, is formed. Team members participate in bi-weekly meetings to plan activities for Earth Day 2000. |
| Oct. | Team members attend UN international NGO meeting held in Seoul, Korea, and establish close working relationship with KFEM (Korean Federation for Environmental Movement), South Koreafs biggest environmental NGO. Co-hosts a Earth Day 2000 workshop with Earth Day Network (U.S.A.) and KFEM during the meeting. Agree to undertake cooperative action throughout Asia during Earth Day 2000 with other NGO's such as ANGOC (Asian NGO Coalition for Agrarian Reform and Rural Development) and LEADERS Nepal. |
| Nov. | Mr. Choi Yul, the secretary-general of KFEM, visits Japan. Plans for two cooperative activities for Earth Day 2000 Asia are initiated: a public survey for ideas on the common logo design and a multi-national air-check project. |
| 2000 | |
| Feb. | Earth Day 2000 China, a joint effort by six Chinese NGOs, holds its opening ceremony. Earth Day Japan representatives, KFEM and Global Village of Beijing staff, and Mr. Denis Hayes (original founder of Earth Day in 1970) meet to discuss Earth Day activities in Japan, China, and Korea. The meeting confirms the mutual need for a more efficient network, and serves as a foundation for future international cooperation. |
| Apr. | Earth Day 2000 Tokyo is held at Hibiya Park, Tokyo on April 22 and 23. On April 22, NO2 levels are gauged at 17 locations throughout Asia. April 23, simultaneous bike parades are held in Seoul and Tokyo. |