In response to increasing instances of extreme temperatures, Japan has launched a public poll to establish a new term for days exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. This nationwide event aims to raise awareness about the perils of heatwaves and facilitate better conversation about climate changes. The survey, announced this week, invites citizens nationwide to suggest and vote for names that most suitably represent these sweltering days.

Japan has been experiencing more frequent and severe heatwaves in recent years, significantly affecting public health and daily living. This initiative is part of a larger plan to encourage the population to be more active in dialogues about climate change. The act also relates to Japan's cultural value of 'mottainai' (waste not, want not) — showing care for the environmental resources.

The US and EU have yet to hold a similar initiative involving the public in such an issue. Instead, they typically respond to extreme heatwaves with increased information campaigns and emergency response plans. While the EU does have some region-specific names for heatwaves, these have not been established through public voting.