"TOKYO--Japanese food and beverage manufacturers have suddenly turned their efforts toward obtaining certification under the International Standards Organization's ISO 14000 environmental management systems series.

A broad range of motivations has been cited. Some said they see a real need to embrace ISO 14000 because their operations are global, and their overseas plants need to have the certification to win public recognition, especially in Europe. Others apparently are trying to win certification for publicity reasons.

...Kirin Brewery Company, the largest Japanese beer brewer, won ISO 14001 certification at its main factories in May, becoming the first Japanese food maker to do so, a company official said July 2.

The three other top beer brewers--Asahi Breweries,Ltd., the second largest, Sapporo Breweries Ltd., and Suntory Ltd.--also are in the process of following the lead, officials of the companies said.

Kikkoman Corporation, the soy sauce maker, also won the certification in May at its main factory in Noda City, northwest of Tokyo, a company official said. It is now preparing to obtain certification at all its domestic and overseas factories, he said.

In March 1992, the soy sauce manufacturer formed an environmental protection team within the company and has been promoting the recycling of waste. Since fiscal 1995, which began in April of that year, it has implemented internal environmental audits based on ISO 14001 series requirements, the official said."