Abandoned boat problem
This refers to the set of problems caused by small vessels, mainly pleasure boats, anchored illegally in rivers, harbors, and other public waters. They hamper proper use of public waters, jeopardize safety at the time of disasters, and are detrimental to the environment. A 1996 survey found approximately 140,000 abandoned vessels. The problem is attributed to the lack of proper mooring facilities at a time when marine recreation is booming and the price of boats is decreasing. Private ownership of small vessels has increased dramatically. In August 1998, the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Construction and the Fisheries Agency jointly compiled a set of proposals on the anchoring and storage of pleasure boats. Since 1997, the government has promoted the development of marine park that utilize existing still waters such as canals and waterways.
Nakhodka heavy oil spillage
On January 2, 1997, the Russia-registered 13,157 ton tanker Nakhodka ran aground off Okinoshima, Shimane Prefecture, spilling 6,240 kiloliters of heavy oil. The spilled oil covered wide stretches of the coast on the Japanese side of the Japan Sea. The tanker broke into 2 sections; the bow sank offshore from Mikuni Township, Fukui Prefecture. This spill has caused severe marine contamination up and down the coast near Mikuni Township. The accident was attributed to a combination of vessel age and bad weather. The incident has raised public awareness of the severe damage oil contamination can cause, and many now question the safety of tankers.
