It will be a hot summer for workers in Tokyo, Japan. The usual crisp cool air pouring from air conditioners has been capped. Since July 1 companies have been forced to reduce cooling in efforts to cut back on electricity use. The devastating earthquake and tsunami last March crippled the Fukishima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station forcing government officials to impose limits on energy use. The goal is to reduce comsumption by 15 percent, no easy task when temperatures soar beyond 95F. Businesses have been forced to set thermastats at 82F, leaving most employees to struggle to complete the day of work. But where there is a crisis there is also opportunity, and many companies are introducing creative ways to beat the heat. For the first time Japan’s strict business dress code is being relaxed in order to allow workers to wear more comfortable clothing, such as t-shirts and shorts, to the office. Others are inviting employees to work during the morning or later in the day to avoid the peak heat hours. Some are replacing all light bulbs with new LED lights to save power. However, blackouts may still be used as many doubt that people will follow the rules. Hospitals, railways and data centers have been spared the restrictions.
Travelers looking to beat the heat
Traveling to Japan this summer will be a challenge. Air conditioning restrictions also apply to hotels, so no cooling off in the room will be possible. Plan to get out of the city and make sure to pack the right clothing, such as short sleave shirts and shorts. Always have a bottle of water on hand.
