Japan is considering introducing a licensing system for the removal of asbestos, a harmful mineral fiber linked to lung diseases. The nation has not yet embraced the licensed asbestos removal system widely used globally. The move is backed by environmentalists and health advocates who seek to ensure the safety of those responsible for the elimination of this hazardous substance from buildings and structures nationwide.

Asbestos, once a common building material, has been associated with a string of health risks in Japan. The handling of asbestos and its removal has become a significant public health concern. Japanese society values public safety highly, and proactive steps like the introduction of a licensing system indicate recognition of the issue and hands-on involvement in safeguarding workers' well-being and public health.

In comparison, the US and the EU have had licensed asbestos removal systems for years now. Their stringent regulations dictate how asbestos has to be dealt with and disposed of. This move by Japan towards greater oversight in managing its asbestos problem aligns with these Western practices, signaling Japan’s drive towards global best practices for environmental health and safety.