Japan's severe allergy crisis linked to 1950s reforestation project using cedar and cypress trees
By
Nithin Coca
Summary
Japan is experiencing a severe nationwide allergy crisis, with an estimated $1.6 billion per day in economic impact from sick days and reduced consumer spending. The root cause traces back to a 1950s reforestation project that planted vast areas with just two types of trees—primarily cedar and cypress—which now produce massive amounts of pollen each spring. Beyond physical discomfort, the allergies cause sleep loss, poor concentration, and increased risk of asthma and food allergies.
Source
bskyJapan's severe allergy crisis linked to 1950s reforestation project using cedar and cypress treesbbc.co.ukKey quotes
· 3 pulledA decision made 70 years ago to reforest vast swathes of Japan with just two kinds of tree has come back to haunt the country.
At the peak of Japan's hay fever season, the economic impact from both sick days and lower consumer spending is estimated at $1.6bn (£1.2bn) per day.
As well as the discomfort, these allergies can lead to sleep loss and poor concentration, and sufferers are more likely to experience other conditions such as asthma and food allergies.
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