Tokyo's sweltering summer has reignited a debate over the 'Cool Biz' initiative, which aims to reduce energy consumption by encouraging men to ditch suits for shorts in the workplace. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government's decision to expand this policy, introduced by Governor Yuriko Koike in April, has sparked controversy with some employees labelling it as 'leg hair harassment', a term used online to describe the discomfort of seeing male colleagues' bare legs and body hair.
The campaign, which has its roots in 2005 when Environment Minister Yuriko Koike first launched it nationally to promote short-sleeve shirts, has now taken on a new form with 'Super Cool Biz', further encouraging energy efficiency. This year's push coincides with extreme heat warnings from the Japan Meteorological Agency, who use the term 'kokusho-bi' for temperatures exceeding 40C, and rising hospital admissions due to heatstroke.
A June survey by Gorilla Clinic revealed a stark divide in opinion among employees, with 53.5% opposing the wearing of shorts to work in the summer, citing discomfort at seeing colleagues' body hair as their primary concern. This sentiment is echoed by women, who significantly outnumber men in opposition to the policy.
Noboru Watanabe, an environmental official for the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, insists that the goal is not to dictate specific attire but rather offer more options for comfort during the heatwave. He stresses that employees should feel free to choose their clothing as long as it does not cause offence. The government continues to promote hydration and air conditioning alongside innovative products such as fan-equipped clothes and UV-blocking umbrellas.