Tokyo's metropolitan government is urging staff to wear shorts to work to reduce air conditioning use amid high energy costs linked to the Middle East war. The measure is part of an upgraded Cool Biz campaign launched this month. Governor Yuriko Koike cited a severe electricity supply-demand outlook.
Tokyo's metropolitan government has relaxed its dress code, allowing staff to wear shorts as part of an enhanced Cool Biz initiative to curb air conditioning reliance. Launched this month, the policy responds to energy cost pressures from the Middle East war. An unnamed Tokyo official told AFP that the conflict is one key factor.
Local media footage from earlier this week showed some male workers already sporting shorts and T-shirts in government offices. The original Cool Biz, started by Japan's environment ministry in 2005, encouraged ditching ties and jackets, with some opting for Okinawan-style collared shirts.
Governor Yuriko Koike, who initiated Cool Biz as environment minister two decades ago, supports the update. "This summer, we encourage 'cool' attire that prioritises comfort, including polo shirts, T-shirts and sneakers and -- depending on job responsibilities -- shorts," she told reporters earlier this month, pointing to a severe electricity supply-demand forecast. The plan also promotes earlier start times.
Japan endured its hottest summer since records began in 1898 last year, per the Japan Meteorological Agency. The agency introduced an official term last week for days exceeding 40C: "cruelly hot" or kokusho days.
