Ashio Copper Mine: Light and Shadow (2)
Current Site of the Ashio Copper Mine
Although the Ashio Copper Mine closed in 1973, wastewater treatment continues at the Nakasai Water Purification Plant, and waste sludge generated during the treatment process is pumped to the Sukobashi Sedimentary Site. The Mato Factory, which manufactured and repaired various machinery used at the copper mine, now operates as a specialized casting manufacturing plant. Furthermore, forestry conservation and afforestation projects in the Matsuki area, which was devastated by smoke pollution, have been gradually implemented since the 1950s, when flash smelting technology was introduced at the Motoyama Smelter. The effects of these projects have gradually been seen, and the area is now experiencing widespread greenery. Furthermore, growing public awareness of the environment has led to increased interest in tree planting. The Ashio Greening Society began its activities in 1996, and the Ashio Environmental Learning Center opened in 2000. Since then, many people have visited the area and participated in tree planting activities.
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