Case Study: Minamata Disease

Minamata Disease

Minamata Disease is one of four major industrial pollution diseases in Japan, caused by discharged mercury from Minamata plant of Chisso Corporation. The disease embraces wide range of symptoms such as sensory disturbance, ataxia, concentric constriction of the visual field, auditory disorders etc. Moreover, if a woman during her pregnancy is highly affected by methylmercury, her baby might suffer from congenital Minamata Disease. On the other hand, Minamata Disease is an example of a complex issue, consisting of interactions between environmental and social systems.

Environmental System

Minamata Disease was caused by continuous environmental pollution of Minamata Bay by waste water from Minamata factory of Chisso Corporation,

Since there are many cases of anthropogenic pollutions affected negatively to people and the environment, therefore society should have clear understanding of current ecologic situation. In addition, people’s awareness can affect positively on making decision of the government.

The third idea is tightening ecological and environmental policy in countries using experience worldwide. I think, if people have not suffered from a problem, it is difficult to them to imagine the real issues and consequences. Moreover, it should be explained that taking actions against a problem is more expensive, than doing prevention measures. In this case countries suffered from anthropogenic pollution should share their experience with other countries.

To conclude, Minamata Disease is a complex issue consisting of different interactions between social and environmental systems. However, there is a positive aspect of the pollution and the disease is human rallying against the problem and, as a result, social awareness of the anthropogenic disasters. I believe, that careful determination of negative aspects of an issue can protect from further mistakes and can lead to sustainable and bright