In 1960, Yokkaichi Citybegan measuring atmospheric concentrations of sulfur oxides (SOx) using the lead oxide method. In 1962, Mie Prefecture installed an automatic measuring device in Isozu, enabling constant monitoring of air pollution sites--a first in Japan.
In 1963, Mie Prefecture and Yokkaichi City stepped up measures to monitor environmental pollution, including setting up a dedicated division, deploying environmental pollution patrol cars, and examiningthe plants on-the-spot.