Journal of Environmental Sciences Supplement (2009) S1–S1

The 3rd International Symposium on Environmental Economy andTechnology (ISEET-2008)

Preface

This volume comprises 44 articles selected via strict peer-review process from full articles submitted for the proceed-

ings of the 3rd International Symposium on Environmental Economy and Technology (ISEET-2008) held on the campus

of Saitama Institute of Technology in August 26–27, 2008.

As we have clearly witnessed since the last quarter of the 20th century, the acceleration of the destruction and pollution

of the environment-in particular global warming-has become one of the most serious challenges to the sound progress of

humankind in the future. It is, therefore, our urgent task to overcome these threats and construct a sustainable society in

this century.

The development of environment-friendly new technology related to energy and other natural resources has a prime

importance for achieving our task, and it is no less indispensable to incorporate such new technology and adapt the current

economic, social and legal structures accordingly.

East Asia, densely populated and rapidly industrializing, now faces the very serious problem of environment. It is,

in this context, very timely and significant for universities in this region, which have the capacity and responsibility, to

cooperate fully and play a leading role in the search for a solution to our common problem.

In view of the foregoing, Saitama Institute of Technology, jointly with Anshan University of Science and Technology

(now renamed University of Science and Technology Liaoning), organized in 2004 the 1st China-Japan-Korea Joint

Symposium on Environmental Economy and Technology. In 2006, the 2nd symposium was held at Anshan University of

Science and Technology with great success.

In the light of ever growing interest and concern about the environment at universities, research institutes and govern-

ments in the region, Saitama Institute of Technology decided to host the subsequent symposium, changing its name to the

3rd International Symposium on Environmental Economy and Technology.

In the symposium, 127 expert participants gathered from different scientific fields in order to present and discuss

research works that would enhance our understanding of diversified aspects of environmental issues. As much as 89

articles were presented in the categories as follows: (a) environmental engineering, (b) environment-friendly materials

science, (c) green energy and materials engineering, and (d) research on global environment.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the members of guest editorial committee for their enthusiastic efforts

in referring of manuscripts In particular, the contribution of Prof. Dong-Ying Ju to accomplish the burdensome practice is

highly appreciated.

Meguru Tezuka

Chairman

Local Committee of ISEET-2008

October 2008