Study of process from Winning Lawsuit to conciliation in disaster area of itai‐itai disease—How should we recover from the disaster of land contamination by environmental disruption?

Abstract

Abstract The case of recovery from itai‐itai disease is exceptional because the injured party won the lawsuit and accepted the apology from the company that caused the damage. It took 40 years for conciliation to be established after the lawsuit was won. Involving lawyers, researchers, reporters, municipalities, and supporters, they realized what they promised at the lawsuit. The contents of the promise included regarding medical compensation, environmental rehabilitation, development as an agricultural town, and restraining the recurrence of pollution. All stakeholders, especially the victim and the perpetrator have made efforts toward realization of the promise. As a result, a trusting relationship, albeit with tension, has been established between them. They are entering a new phase to determine how to share their experiences with others.

Keywords

• compensation
• conciliation
• itai‐itai disease
• recovery plan
• land contamination
• public nuisance