Japan to Execs: Wear Sandals, Hawaiian Shirts to Save Energy

The Japanese government launched its “Super Cool Biz” campaign today, pushing employees to wear Hawaiian shirts, T-shirts and sandals to work in order to save electricity, WSJ reports. For years, the Cool Biz program has asked businesses to set their summer thermostats at 82 degrees Fahrenheit. The effort, along with the governments efforts to cut electricity use 15% this summer, is being promoted heavily in light of the Japan’s nuclear crisis.

But many in Japan’s staid business culture are aghast at the idea of putting their suits in mothballs (there are no guidelines for female employees). WSJ reports one official from the ministry of trade as saying, “I personally do not think it is appropriate to go out in sandals and meet people.”

While government offices are looking to get employees to follow the guidelines, the private sector, according to the article, is not so eager.

Clothing retailers, though, love the idea. One estimates the new Super Cool Biz wardrobe will cost $210.

Some interesting coverage here.

Picture credit: Greg Hirson