Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda held a Ministerial Meeting on the Advancement of Disaster Waste Management at the Diet building.

Discussion took place on the roadmap of disaster waste management and efforts toward the reuse of disaster waste.

Based on the discussion, the Prime Minister said, "Today we have compiled the roadmap that shows the overall picture of disaster waste management. I would like to mention three points regarding the steady implementation of the roadmap from now on.
Firstly, in addition to the original goal of completing the treatment by the end of FY 2013, we decided to set the interim goal for the coastal areas of Iwate and Miyagi Prefectures, where the amount of wastes generated was large, which is to complete around 60% of the treatment by the end of FY 2012.
Secondly, there was significant progress in the wide-area disposal of disaster waste, as a result of many municipalities considering the acceptance in a proactive manner. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude. Regarding the treatment of combustibles and wood debris, it is necessary to continuously make every effort for the acceptance by municipalities with which the coordination is currently underway. Further, continued effort to specifically ensure the site of disposal of fishing gear, fishing nets and noncombustible mixtures, including the option of wide-area disposal, will be necessary.
Thirdly, regarding the reuse of disaster waste, utilization of recycled materials for reconstruction work such as the construction of coastal levees is starting to progress steadily. It is necessary to try to expand recycled use in the future as well.
By paying attention to these points, the government will continuously unite its utmost efforts for the treatment of disaster wastes as early as possible."