2.7 Cool Biz

The Japanese government plans to sell a new style for clothing at work. It is called "Super Cool Biz". Salaryman can wear casual suits without wearing a Jacket and tie following the March 11 tsunami. People didn't agree with "Cool Biz" campaign in 2005, because it was not fit and too casual for businessmen. However, according to the research, most people approved to wearing a simple suit. "Super Cool Biz" refers to Okinawan shirts, Polo shirts, Aloha shirts and Kariyushi shirts. The article states, Ryu Matsumoto, the current environment minister said, "This is going to be a big event to change the way of life in Japan and people's lifestyles." The Japanese government encourages people to save energy and to improve lifestyles within Japanese society.

I think this news is very helpful for businessmen. If they wear comfortable clothing in their company, they will work harder to achieve better results. However, their boss may think it inappropriate, because the custom in Japan is that casual suits are not professional. Yet the people wearing the new style are seen as more friendly than people wearing traditional suits. Most Japanese people are concerned about saving energy this summer. The government is asking people and companies to reduce 15 percent of their electricity usage. I am sure this is a good chance to change one's lifestyle as well as to save energy. The government should embrace this idea of Super Cool Biz and implement it throughout Japan.