So as Moqs already posted, it’s been a little over 3 months since the huge earthquake hit northern Japan.
The nuclear power plants are still leaking radiation, many survivors of the earthquakes and tsunami as well as those evacuating from the power plants are still without proper housing, about 80% of the debris are still left as is and Japan is expected to be short of power this summer.
Even in the Tokyo metropolitan area, we are seeing effects of radiation and power shortages. Where I live, there were scheduled blackouts for about 4 weeks after 3.11. The blackouts have ceased since, but we’re all expected to save energy as much as possible.
Stores and offices are contributing by minimizing light fixtures and setting the AC temperature a few degrees higher than usual, so in most places you go it seems a little bit dimmer and feels a little bit warmer – not at all a discomfort when thinking about the people in the north.
I’m also seeing a lot of what are called “green curtains” or “green shades” on shops and houses. These green curtains are usually made of plants such as cucumbers, gourds and morning glory that grow stems and vines on nets so that they cover the windows. The idea is to block the sunlight with these plants to keep rooms cool without the use of air conditioners. This has been going on since a few summers ago when we were experiencing some record-breaking heat waves and now that we’re trying to cut down on power so we won’t have to have blackouts over the summer, more people are doing it.
There seems to be a movement that they’re naming “Plant to Plant” which refers to the act of switching from the use of power plants to growing plants to conserve electricity.
MUJI is even doing an extensive experiment to see which plants are the most efficient choice(s) for green shades. They even show you how it’s done step by step and you can see the progress here.
And in my neighborhood, I found one in the making that I was able to get a photo of.
It looks like it’ll take a little more time to cover the windows. Those plants better hurry ’cause once rainy season is over, it’s going to get pret-ty hotttt. So if anyone who is in Japan this summer, look out for these green shades. You’ll know that they’re making efforts to save electricity.
