At the A1 level, you don't need to use '環境保護' (Kankyou Hogo) in complex ways. Think of it as a big name for 'helping the Earth.' You might see it on posters or in simple books. At this stage, just recognize that 'Kankyou' means the world around us and 'Hogo' means to keep it safe. You can use it in very simple sentences like 'Kankyou hogo wa taisetsu desu' (Environmental protection is important). It is a long word, so practice saying it slowly: Kan-kyou-ho-go. Even if you can't use it in a long conversation yet, knowing it helps you understand that a topic is about nature and the planet.
For A2 learners, '環境保護' starts to appear in basic reading passages about hobbies or news. You can use it to describe why you do certain things, like recycling. You might say, 'Kankyou hogo no tame ni, gomi o bunbetsushimasu' (I sort my trash for environmental protection). At this level, you should start noticing how it combines with other words. For example, 'Kankyou hogo katsudou' (environmental protection activities). It's a formal word, so using it makes you sound like a serious student who cares about global issues. Try to remember that 'Hogo' is the action part and 'Kankyou' is what is being protected.
At the B1 level, you should be able to use '環境保護' to express your opinions on social issues. You can talk about the importance of protecting the environment in a presentation or a short essay. You will start to see this word in more complex sentence structures, such as 'Kankyou hogo o uttaeru hito ga fuete iru' (The number of people appealing for environmental protection is increasing). You should also be able to distinguish it from the more casual word 'Eco.' At B1, you are expected to understand that '環境保護' is the 'official' term used in newspapers and documentaries.
At the B2 level (the level of this word), you should have a firm grasp of '環境保護.' You can use it fluently in discussions about government policy, corporate responsibility, and international relations. You should be comfortable using the verb form '環境を保護する' and the noun modifier form '環境保護の...'. You will also encounter it in compound terms like '環境保護団体' (environmental protection organizations). At this level, you can explain the nuances of why environmental protection is necessary for sustainable development, using '環境保護' as a key term in your argument. You should also be aware of its synonyms like '環境保全' (environmental preservation).
For C1 learners, '環境保護' is a basic building block for advanced discourse. You should be able to analyze the socio-political implications of environmental protection in Japan versus other countries. You will see this word in legal texts, high-level academic journals, and political manifestos. You should be able to discuss the tension between '環境保護' and '経済発展' (economic development) with nuance. At this level, you might also use more specific terms like '海洋環境保護' (marine environmental protection) or '地球規模の環境保護' (global-scale environmental protection). Your usage should be precise and contextually appropriate, reflecting a deep understanding of Japanese formal registers.
At the C2 level, you use '環境保護' with the same ease as a native speaker in professional or academic environments. You can lead a seminar on '環境保護法' (Environmental Protection Law) or write a critique of international environmental protection strategies. You understand the historical evolution of the term in Japan, from the post-war industrial pollution era to modern climate change activism. You can use the word in rhetorical ways, perhaps questioning the effectiveness of certain '環境保護' measures. Your command of the word allows you to use it in complex, multi-clause sentences that discuss abstract philosophical concepts related to humanity's relationship with the environment.

環境保護 in 30 Sekunden

  • A formal Japanese noun meaning 'environmental protection.'
  • Used in serious contexts like news, policy, and education.
  • Combines 'environment' (環境) and 'protection' (保護).
  • Commonly paired with verbs like 'promote' or 'advocate for'.

The term 環境保護 (Kankyou Hogo) is a cornerstone of modern Japanese discourse, representing the proactive measures taken to shield our natural world from degradation. At its heart, this noun combines two powerful concepts: the 'environment' (環境) and 'protection' (保護). In a Japanese societal context, this isn't just a scientific term; it carries a weight of responsibility, often linked to the traditional Japanese concept of Mottainai (avoiding waste) and the nation's historical struggle with industrial pollution during the mid-20th century. When you use this word, you are referring to a broad spectrum of activities, from local recycling initiatives to international treaties like the Kyoto Protocol.

Etymological Nuance
The first part, 環境 (Kankyou), literally translates to 'surrounding boundaries,' implying everything that encompasses human life. The second part, 保護 (Hogo), suggests a maternal or custodial care, similar to how one might protect a child or a precious artifact. Together, they form a term that implies an active, intentional guardianship over the planet.
Societal Application
In Japan, you will encounter this word in government white papers, corporate social responsibility (CSR) reports, and educational curricula. It is the formal standard for discussing 'green' policies. While the casual 'eco' (エコ) is used for marketing and daily habits, 環境保護 is the term of choice for serious debate and systemic change.

政府は新しい環境保護政策を導入することを決定しました。 (The government decided to introduce a new environmental protection policy.)

Understanding the nuance between 'protection' and 'preservation' is key. In Japanese, 環境保全 (Kankyou Hozen) is often used interchangeably with 環境保護, but 'Hogo' (Protection) often carries a more urgent connotation—saving something that is under direct threat of being lost or destroyed. It is frequently paired with verbs like 訴える (uttaeru - to appeal for) or 推進する (suishin suru - to promote), highlighting its role as a call to action.

多くの若者が環境保護団体に参加しています。 (Many young people are participating in environmental protection organizations.)

Global Context
As Japan is an island nation with limited natural resources, 環境保護 is often discussed in relation to maritime health, forest management, and waste reduction. The word serves as a bridge between local Japanese values and global environmental movements.

海のスモッグを減らすことは、海洋の環境保護に直結します。 (Reducing sea smog directly relates to the environmental protection of the oceans.)

In summary, 環境保護 is more than just a translation of 'environmental protection.' It is a multifaceted concept that reflects Japan's legal, social, and moral stance on the preservation of the natural world. Whether you are reading a newspaper or discussing sustainable development goals (SDGs), this word is your primary tool for expressing the necessity of safeguarding our surroundings.

Using 環境保護 (Kankyou Hogo) correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical flexibility and its place within formal Japanese structures. As a compound noun (jukugo), it can function as the subject of a sentence, the object of a verb, or a modifier for other nouns. Below, we explore the various ways this term integrates into Japanese syntax to convey complex environmental ideas.

As a Subject (The Focus of Action)
When 環境保護 is the subject, it often precedes verbs that describe importance or necessity. For example, '環境保護が重要だ' (Environmental protection is important). In this context, the particle 'ga' (が) highlights the noun as the primary topic of concern.

環境保護は、私たちの世代の最も大きな課題の一つです。 (Environmental protection is one of the biggest challenges of our generation.)

As a Modifier (The Adjectival Use)
You will frequently see 環境保護 modifying other nouns. When doing so, it often connects directly to the following noun without the particle 'no' (の) if it forms a recognized compound term, though 'no' is used for more descriptive phrases. Examples include 環境保護団体 (environmental protection group) and 環境保護活動 (environmental protection activities).

彼は環境保護の重要性を強調しました。 (He emphasized the importance of environmental protection.)

In political and economic contexts, 環境保護 is often paired with verbs of promotion or regulation. Verbs like 義務付ける (gimuzukeru - to make mandatory) or 促進する (sokushin suru - to promote) are common partners. This reflects the word's status as a 'big picture' term used in policy-making.

この法律は、企業の環境保護への取り組みを義務付けています。 (This law mandates companies' efforts toward environmental protection.)

Common Verb Pairings
  • 環境保護を訴える: To appeal for/advocate for environmental protection.
  • 環境保護に努める: To strive for environmental protection.
  • 環境保護に配慮する: To take environmental protection into consideration.

When writing in an academic or professional setting, using 環境保護 demonstrates a high level of literacy. It moves beyond simple 'nature-loving' sentiments and enters the realm of structured, systemic environmentalism. Always ensure that the context supports this formal tone; using it in a casual conversation about picking up a single piece of litter might sound overly dramatic—in that case, 'gomi-hiroi' (garbage picking) or 'eco' might be more appropriate.

The term 環境保護 (Kankyou Hogo) is ubiquitous in Japanese public life, but its usage is concentrated in specific spheres of influence. To master this word, one must recognize the acoustic and visual environments where it naturally thrives. It is a word of gravity, used when the stakes involve the future of the planet or the health of a community.

News and Media
If you turn on NHK (Japan's public broadcaster) during the evening news, you are almost guaranteed to hear 環境保護. It appears in reports on climate change summits (COP), discussions on carbon neutrality, and segments about wildlife conservation. News anchors use it to frame global issues in a way that sounds authoritative and objective.

ニュースキャスター:「次世代のための環境保護について、専門家に話を伺います。」 (News anchor: "We will talk to an expert about environmental protection for the next generation.")

Educational Settings
From elementary school through university, 環境保護 is a key vocabulary word in 'Shakai' (Social Studies) and 'Rika' (Science) classes. Students are taught about the '3Rs' (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) under the umbrella of environmental protection. It is a word that Japanese children learn early as part of their civic duty.

先生:「今日は、地域の環境保護について作文を書きましょう。」 (Teacher: "Today, let's write an essay about local environmental protection.")

Corporate and Political Discourse
In the business world, 環境保護 is central to 'Kankyou Keiei' (Environmental Management). Companies compete to show how their products contribute to environmental protection. Similarly, in politics, candidates use the term in their manifestos to appeal to environmentally conscious voters.

企業のウェブサイト:「我が社は、持続可能な社会の実現と環境保護にコミットしています。」 (Corporate website: "Our company is committed to realizing a sustainable society and environmental protection.")

Ultimately, hearing 環境保護 signals that the conversation has moved from the personal to the societal. It is the language of shared responsibility. When you hear this word, pay attention to the scale of the discussion—it is almost always about the collective impact of human actions on the world we inhabit.

While 環境保護 (Kankyou Hogo) is a standard term, learners often stumble over its nuances, its grammatical structure, or its confusion with similar-sounding words. Avoiding these pitfalls will make your Japanese sound more natural and precise.

Mistake 1: Confusing 'Hogo' with 'Hozen'
A common error is using 環境保護 (Hogo) when 環境保全 (Hozen) might be more appropriate. While 'Hogo' means 'protection' (saving something from harm), 'Hozen' means 'preservation' or 'conservation' (maintaining the current state). In academic papers, 'Hozen' is often preferred for biodiversity, while 'Hogo' is used for active movements against pollution.

環境保護のために、今の自然をそのまま残しましょう。
環境保全のために、今の自然をそのまま残しましょう。
(To preserve the environment, let's leave nature exactly as it is.)

Mistake 2: Missing the Particle 'Wo' (を)
As mentioned in the grammar section, many learners try to say 環境保護する. Because 環境保護 is a compound noun, it is grammatically safer and more common to say 環境を保護する (protect the environment). Using it without the particle can sometimes sound like 'to environmental-protect,' which is awkward in Japanese.
Mistake 3: Overusing Formal Terms in Casual Speech
Using 環境保護 when talking to a friend about using a reusable bag might sound a bit stiff. In casual conversation, Japanese people often use the loanword エコ (Eco). Saying 'Eco da ne!' (That's eco-friendly!) is much more natural than 'Kankyou hogo da ne!'

❌ 友達と話す時:「このバッグを使うのは、環境保護のためだよ。」
✅ 友達と話す時:「このバッグを使うのは、エコだからだよ。」
(When talking to a friend: "I use this bag because it's eco-friendly.")

By being mindful of these distinctions—the difference between protection and preservation, the necessity of particles, and the appropriate register for the situation—you will use 環境保護 with the precision of a native speaker. Remember: use 環境保護 when you want to sound serious, professional, or academic.

The Japanese language has a rich vocabulary for environmental concepts. While 環境保護 (Kankyou Hogo) is the general term for 'environmental protection,' knowing its synonyms and alternatives will allow you to tailor your message to specific contexts.

環境保全 (Kankyou Hozen)
Meaning: Environmental preservation/conservation.
Comparison: While Hogo implies shielding something from an external threat, Hozen implies maintaining the integrity and balance of an ecosystem. You'll see Hozen more often in scientific papers and ecological studies.
自然保護 (Shizen Hogo)
Meaning: Nature conservation.
Comparison: Kankyou (Environment) is a broad term that includes man-made surroundings and global systems (like the atmosphere). Shizen (Nature) specifically refers to the wild, non-human world like forests, oceans, and animals.

私たちは自然保護区を拡大する必要があります。 (We need to expand the nature conservation areas.)

エコ (Eco)
Meaning: Eco/Eco-friendly.
Comparison: This is the informal, everyday version of environmentalism. It's used for products (eco-bag), lifestyles (eco-life), and as a general adjective for something that saves energy or reduces waste.
サステナビリティ (Sustainability)
Meaning: Sustainability.
Comparison: Increasingly common in Japanese business (SDGs), this loanword focuses on the long-term viability of systems. While Kankyou Hogo is about 'protecting,' sustainability is about 'continuing' without depletion.

このプロジェクトはサステナビリティを重視しています。 (This project emphasizes sustainability.)

Choosing between these words depends on whether you are focusing on the *act of guarding* (Hogo), the *maintenance of balance* (Hozen), the *wild world* (Shizen), or *everyday green habits* (Eco). Mastering these nuances will significantly elevate your Japanese communication skills regarding the environment.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The kanji '環' (Kan) originally referred to a jade ring. This 'ring' concept evolved into 'surroundings' and eventually 'environment.'

Aussprachehilfe

UK /kæŋ.kjoʊ hoʊ.ɡoʊ/
US /kɑːn.kjoʊ hoʊ.ɡoʊ/
Japanese is a pitch-accent language. In 'Kankyou', the pitch usually starts low and rises. In 'Hogo', it is often flat or slightly falling depending on the dialect.
Reimt sich auf
Kankou (Tourism) Kanjou (Emotion) Hogo (Protection) Sogo (Mutual) Dougo (Same word) Kougo (Colloquial) Shougo (Noon) Kigou (Symbol)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing 'Kankyou' as 'Kankyu' (forgetting the long 'o').
  • Saying 'Hogo' with a short English 'o' like in 'hot'.
  • Stressing the wrong syllable (Japanese syllables should have equal length).
  • Confusing 'Kankyou' with 'Kankou' (tourism).
  • Mispronouncing the 'g' in 'Hogo' as a 'j' sound.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 4/5

The kanji are somewhat complex (JLPT N2 level) and require focus to distinguish from similar characters.

Schreiben 5/5

Writing '環' and '護' correctly requires many strokes and practice.

Sprechen 3/5

The word is long but follows standard Japanese phonetics. Rhythm is key.

Hören 3/5

Commonly heard in news, making it easier to recognize with exposure.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

環境 (Environment) 保護 (Protection) 自然 (Nature) 大切 (Important) 守る (To protect - verb)

Als Nächstes lernen

持続可能 (Sustainable) 地球温暖化 (Global warming) 再生可能エネルギー (Renewable energy) 生態系 (Ecosystem) 循環型社会 (Circular society)

Fortgeschritten

生物多様性 (Biodiversity) 温室効果ガス (Greenhouse gases) 環境負荷 (Environmental burden) カーボンニュートラル (Carbon neutral) パリ協定 (Paris Agreement)

Wichtige Grammatik

Noun + のための (For the purpose of...)

環境保護のための活動。

Noun + に努める (To strive for...)

環境保護に努めます。

Noun + を巡って (Surrounding/Concerning...)

環境保護を巡って意見が分かれた。

Noun + に関する (Related to...)

環境保護に関する報告書。

Noun + を通じて (Through...)

環境保護を通じて社会に貢献する。

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

環境保護は大切です。

Environmental protection is important.

Basic 'A wa B desu' structure.

2

環境保護の本を読みます。

I read a book about environmental protection.

Using 'no' to connect two nouns.

3

みんなで環境保護をしましょう。

Let's all do environmental protection.

Using '~mashou' for a suggestion.

4

これは環境保護のためのバッグです。

This is a bag for environmental protection.

'~no tame no' means 'for the purpose of'.

5

環境保護はいいことです。

Environmental protection is a good thing.

'Koto' turns the idea into a noun phrase.

6

学校で環境保護を習いました。

I learned about environmental protection at school.

'~de' indicates the location of an action.

7

環境保護が好きです。

I like environmental protection (efforts).

'~ga suki' indicates a preference.

8

環境保護について話します。

I will talk about environmental protection.

'~ni tsuite' means 'about'.

1

環境保護のために、電気を消します。

For environmental protection, I turn off the lights.

Using '~no tame ni' to show purpose.

2

彼は環境保護団体に入っています。

He is in an environmental protection group.

'~ni haitte iru' means 'is a member of'.

3

環境保護は私たちの義務です。

Environmental protection is our duty.

'Gimu' means duty or obligation.

4

環境保護のポスターを作りました。

I made a poster for environmental protection.

Direct object 'wo' with the verb 'tsukuru'.

5

新しい環境保護のルールがあります。

There is a new rule for environmental protection.

Existence verb 'arimasu'.

6

環境保護を考えることは面白いです。

Thinking about environmental protection is interesting.

'~koto wa omoshiroi' makes the action the subject.

7

環境保護のためにリサイクルします。

I recycle for environmental protection.

Purpose clause followed by an action.

8

世界中で環境保護が進んでいます。

Environmental protection is progressing all over the world.

'~ga susunde iru' means 'is progressing'.

1

環境保護の問題について議論しましょう。

Let's debate the issue of environmental protection.

'Giron suru' is a formal verb for 'to discuss/debate'.

2

環境保護に配慮した製品を選びたいです。

I want to choose products that consider environmental protection.

'~ni hairyo shita' modifies 'seihin' (products).

3

政府は環境保護のために増税を検討しています。

The government is considering a tax increase for environmental protection.

'Kentou shite iru' means 'is considering/examining'.

4

環境保護活動に参加するのは素晴らしいことです。

Participating in environmental protection activities is a wonderful thing.

Gerund-like 'no wa' structure.

5

環境保護の重要性を子供たちに教えるべきだ。

We should teach children the importance of environmental protection.

'~beki da' expresses an obligation or strong suggestion.

6

技術の進歩が環境保護に役立っています。

Progress in technology is helping environmental protection.

'~ni yakudatte iru' means 'is being useful for'.

7

多くの企業が環境保護を経営方針に掲げています。

Many companies include environmental protection in their management policies.

'~ni kakagete iru' means 'to profess/carry as a slogan'.

8

環境保護を無視して経済を成長させることは不可能です。

It is impossible to grow the economy while ignoring environmental protection.

'~wo mushi shite' means 'ignoring...'.

1

環境保護と経済発展のバランスを保つことが不可欠です。

Maintaining a balance between environmental protection and economic development is essential.

'Fukaketsu' is a formal word for 'essential/indispensable'.

2

この法律は、深刻な公害を防ぎ、環境保護を推進するために制定されました。

This law was enacted to prevent serious pollution and promote environmental protection.

Passive voice 'seitei sareta' (was enacted).

3

環境保護団体は、政府の新しいダム計画に強く反対しています。

Environmental protection groups are strongly opposing the government's new dam plan.

'~ni hantai shite iru' means 'is opposing'.

4

持続可能な社会を築くためには、抜本的な環境保護対策が必要です。

To build a sustainable society, drastic environmental protection measures are necessary.

'Bapponteki' means 'drastic' or 'radical'.

5

個人の意識改革が、結果として大きな環境保護につながります。

Reform in individual awareness results in significant environmental protection.

'~ni tsunagaru' means 'to lead to/connect to'.

6

国際会議では、地球温暖化防止と環境保護が主要なテーマとなりました。

At the international conference, preventing global warming and environmental protection were the main themes.

'Shuyou na' means 'major' or 'primary'.

7

環境保護を優先するあまり、コストが大幅に上昇してしまった。

By prioritizing environmental protection too much, the costs increased significantly.

'~amari' indicates an excess leading to a result.

8

海洋プラスチックごみの削減は、喫緊の環境保護課題である。

Reducing marine plastic waste is an urgent environmental protection issue.

'Kikkin' means 'urgent' or 'pressing'.

1

環境保護の観点から見れば、このプロジェクトには多くの欠陥がある。

From the perspective of environmental protection, this project has many flaws.

'~no kanten kara mireba' means 'looking from the perspective of'.

2

環境保護の名の下に、先住民の権利が侵害されるケースも報告されている。

Cases where indigenous rights are violated in the name of environmental protection have also been reported.

'~no na no moto ni' means 'in the name of/under the guise of'.

3

企業の社会的責任(CSR)において、環境保護はもはや避けて通れない要素だ。

In Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), environmental protection is an element that can no longer be avoided.

'Sakete toorenai' is an idiomatic way to say 'unavoidable'.

4

環境保護を巡る国際的な対立は、資源の奪い合いという側面も持っている。

International conflicts surrounding environmental protection also have an aspect of competing for resources.

'~wo meguru' means 'surrounding/concerning'.

5

生態系の多様性を維持することは、広義の環境保護に含まれる。

Maintaining biodiversity is included in environmental protection in a broad sense.

'Kougi' means 'broad sense'.

6

環境保護を謳いながら、実態は利益追求のみに走る企業も少なくない。

There are not a few companies that profess environmental protection while in reality only pursuing profit.

'~nagara' indicates a contradiction here.

7

環境保護への投資は、長期的には経済的な利益をもたらすことが証明されている。

It has been proven that investment in environmental protection brings economic benefits in the long run.

'~wo motarasu' means 'to bring about'.

8

環境保護思想の普及により、消費者の購買行動が劇的に変化した。

With the spread of environmental protection ideology, consumer purchasing behavior changed dramatically.

'Shisou' means 'ideology' or 'thought'.

1

環境保護と自由貿易のジレンマは、現代の国際法における最も難解な課題の一つである。

The dilemma between environmental protection and free trade is one of the most complex challenges in modern international law.

'Nankai' is a formal word for 'difficult to understand/complex'.

2

環境保護の言説が、時として政治的なプロパガンダに利用される危うさを孕んでいる。

There is a danger that environmental protection discourse is sometimes used for political propaganda.

'~wo harande iru' means 'to be fraught with/contain'.

3

真の環境保護とは、単なる自然の囲い込みではなく、人間と自然の共生を再定義することだ。

True environmental protection is not merely the fencing off of nature, but the redefinition of the symbiosis between humans and nature.

'~de wa naku' indicates 'not A but B'.

4

環境保護を標榜する国家が、他国に対して環境基準を押し付ける「環境帝国主義」への批判もある。

There are also criticisms of 'environmental imperialism,' where nations advocating environmental protection impose environmental standards on other countries.

'Hyoubou suru' means 'to advocate/profess'.

5

気候変動という未曾有の危機に対し、環境保護の枠組みを根底から見直す時期に来ている。

In the face of the unprecedented crisis of climate change, the time has come to fundamentally review the framework of environmental protection.

'Mizou' means 'unprecedented'.

6

環境保護の倫理的根拠を、将来世代への責任という観点から再構築する必要がある。

It is necessary to reconstruct the ethical basis of environmental protection from the perspective of responsibility to future generations.

'Saikouchiku' means 'reconstruction'.

7

開発途上国における環境保護は、貧困撲滅と切り離して考えることはできない。

Environmental protection in developing countries cannot be considered separately from the eradication of poverty.

'Kirihanasu' means 'to separate/detach'.

8

環境保護への情熱が、科学的根拠を欠いた盲信へと変質するリスクを常に警戒すべきだ。

We should always be wary of the risk that passion for environmental protection transforms into blind faith lacking scientific evidence.

'Henshitsu suru' means 'to degenerate/change in quality'.

Synonyme

自然保護 環境保全 エコロジー 維持

Gegenteile

環境破壊 汚染

Häufige Kollokationen

環境保護団体
環境保護活動
環境保護政策
環境保護の重要性
環境保護への取り組み
環境保護法
環境保護運動
環境保護の観点
環境保護意識
海洋環境保護

Häufige Phrasen

環境保護のために

— For the sake of environmental protection. Used to explain the motivation behind an action.

環境保護のために、マイボトルを持ち歩く。

環境保護に努める

— To strive for environmental protection. A formal way to express commitment.

全社員が環境保護に努めています。

環境保護を優先する

— To prioritize environmental protection. Used in decision-making contexts.

利益よりも環境保護を優先すべきだ。

環境保護を訴える

— To appeal for/advocate for environmental protection.

若者たちが街頭で環境保護を訴えた。

環境保護に配慮する

— To take environmental protection into consideration.

環境保護に配慮した設計を行う。

環境保護を目的とする

— To have environmental protection as the goal.

この基金は環境保護を目的としている。

環境保護に貢献する

— To contribute to environmental protection.

この技術は環境保護に大きく貢献する。

環境保護の先駆者

— A pioneer of environmental protection.

彼は日本の環境保護の先駆者だ。

環境保護を推進する

— To promote/drive forward environmental protection.

新しいプロジェクトで環境保護を推進する。

環境保護の啓発

— Environmental protection awareness/education.

子供たちへの環境保護の啓発が必要だ。

Wird oft verwechselt mit

環境保護 vs 環境保全 (Kankyou Hozen)

Hozen focuses on maintaining current conditions, while Hogo focuses on shielding from threat.

環境保護 vs 自然保護 (Shizen Hogo)

Shizen refers specifically to the wild, while Kankyou includes the whole ecosystem including human areas.

環境保護 vs 環境汚染 (Kankyou Osen)

This is the opposite: environmental pollution.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"環境保護の旗印"

— Using environmental protection as a slogan or banner to rally people.

彼は環境保護の旗印を掲げて立候補した。

Formal
"環境保護の美名の下に"

— Under the fair name of environmental protection (often implying a hidden motive).

環境保護の美名の下に、土地が収用された。

Literary/Critical
"環境保護に背を向ける"

— To turn one's back on environmental protection (to ignore it).

環境保護に背を向けるような政策は許されない。

Figurative
"環境保護の最前線"

— The front line of environmental protection.

彼は環境保護の最前線で戦っている。

Journalistic
"環境保護の礎を築く"

— To lay the foundation for environmental protection.

この活動が将来の環境保護の礎を築くだろう。

Formal
"環境保護に一石を投じる"

— To throw a stone into (to create a stir/start a discussion about) environmental protection.

彼の発言は環境保護の議論に一石を投じた。

Common Idiom
"環境保護の波に乗る"

— To ride the wave of environmental protection (to follow the trend).

多くの企業が環境保護の波に乗ろうとしている。

Metaphorical
"環境保護の重責を担う"

— To bear the heavy responsibility of environmental protection.

彼は大臣として環境保護の重責を担っている。

Very Formal
"環境保護に身を投じる"

— To throw oneself into (dedicate oneself to) environmental protection.

彼女は大学卒業後、環境保護に身を投じた。

Literary
"環境保護の歯車"

— A cog in the machine of environmental protection (part of a larger effort).

私たち一人一人が環境保護の歯車にならなければならない。

Metaphorical

Leicht verwechselbar

環境保護 vs 保護 (Hogo)

General word for protection.

Hogo is the action; Kankyou Hogo is the specific field of environmental protection.

児童保護 (Child protection) vs 環境保護.

環境保護 vs 保存 (Hozon)

Both mean keeping something.

Hozon is usually for data, food, or cultural artifacts (preservation).

データの保存 (Saving data) vs 環境保護.

環境保護 vs 保障 (Houshou)

Sounds similar in some contexts.

Houshou means security or guarantee, like national security.

安全保障 (National security) vs 環境保護.

環境保護 vs 介護 (Kaigo)

Shares the 'Go' (protect) kanji.

Kaigo specifically means nursing care for the elderly or disabled.

老人の介護 (Care for the elderly) vs 環境保護.

環境保護 vs 守護 (Shugo)

Shares the 'Go' kanji.

Shugo is a more spiritual or legendary 'protection' (like a guardian deity).

守護神 (Guardian deity) vs 環境保護.

Satzmuster

A1

[Noun] は大切です。

環境保護は大切です。

A2

[Noun] のために [Verb]。

環境保護のためにリサイクルします。

B1

[Noun] について議論する。

環境保護について議論する。

B2

[Noun] を推進する。

政府は環境保護を推進している。

C1

[Noun] の観点から見れば、[Sentence]。

環境保護の観点から見れば、この計画は不十分だ。

C2

[Noun] を標榜する [Noun]。

環境保護を標榜する国家。

B2

[Noun] に配慮した [Noun]。

環境保護に配慮した製品。

B1

[Noun] の重要性を訴える。

彼は環境保護の重要性を訴えた。

Wortfamilie

Substantive

環境 (Environment)
保護 (Protection)
保護者 (Guardian/Parent)
環境学者 (Environmentalist/Scientist)

Verben

保護する (To protect)
取り囲む (To surround - related to 'Kan')

Adjektive

環境に優しい (Environmentally friendly)
保護的な (Protective)

Verwandt

エコ (Eco)
リサイクル (Recycle)
サステナビリティ (Sustainability)
自然 (Nature)
保全 (Preservation)

So verwendest du es

frequency

High in news, medium-high in daily life, very high in education.

Häufige Fehler
  • 環境保護する 環境を保護する

    You need the object marker 'wo' to turn this noun into a verb phrase correctly in formal Japanese.

  • 環境保全 (when meaning active protection) 環境保護

    While similar, 'Hogo' is better for active movements or saving something from a threat.

  • Kankyo Hogo (short 'o') Kankyou Hogo (long 'o')

    The 'u' after 'o' in Kankyou and the long 'o' in Hogo are essential for correct pronunciation.

  • 観光保護 (Kankou Hogo) 環境保護 (Kankyou Hogo)

    Confusing 'Kankyou' (environment) with 'Kankou' (tourism) is a very common learner mistake.

  • Using Kankyou Hogo for a reusable bag with friends. エコバッグ (Eco bag)

    Kankyou Hogo is too formal for casual daily items; use 'Eco' instead.

Tipps

Use in Essays

When writing a Japanese essay, start with '環境保護の重要性' (The importance of environmental protection) to sound professional.

Long Vowels

Don't forget the long 'o' at the end of 'Kankyou' and 'Hogo'. Pronouncing them short can make the word hard to understand.

Connecting Nouns

To say 'environmental protection policy,' you can just string them together: 環境保護政策 (Kankyou hogo seisaku).

Eco vs Kankyou Hogo

Use 'Eco' for products and 'Kankyou Hogo' for movements or laws.

Mottainai

Japanese environmental protection is often linked to the spirit of 'Mottainai' (not wasting resources).

Radical Check

The kanji '護' has the 'speech' radical (言) on the left, which helps you remember it's about advocating for protection.

News keywords

When you hear 'Kankyou,' expect words like 'mondai' (problem) or 'hogo' (protection) to follow.

Pitch Accent

Keep your pitch relatively flat for 'Hogo' to sound more like a native speaker.

Context Clues

If you see the kanji '環' and '境' but can't read them, look for 'green' or 'nature' keywords nearby.

Compound Words

Learn 'Kankyou Hogo' as one block rather than four separate kanji to speed up your reading.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Imagine a **Kan** (can) of **Kyou** (Kyoto) air that you want to **Ho** (hold) and **Go** (guard). You are protecting the environment!

Visuelle Assoziation

Visualize a green ring (環) around a boundary (境) being held (保) by a shield (護).

Word Web

Nature Pollution Recycle Trees Ocean Policy Future Animals

Herausforderung

Try to find three items in your house that have an 'environmental protection' mark or label and say 'Kankyou hogo' out loud each time.

Wortherkunft

The term is a Sino-Japanese compound (Kango). '環境' (Kankyou) was popularized in the Meiji era to translate Western concepts of 'environment.' '保護' (Hogo) is a much older term used in Buddhist and legal contexts to mean 'safeguarding.'

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Kankyou: The boundaries that surround one. Hogo: To keep and guard.

Sino-Japanese (Kanji-based)

Kultureller Kontext

When discussing environmental protection in Japan, be aware that some topics (like whaling or nuclear energy) can be politically sensitive and may elicit strong, differing opinions.

In English-speaking countries, 'environmental protection' often evokes images of large-scale activism like Greenpeace. In Japan, it is often more institutionalized and linked to personal habits like meticulous trash sorting.

The Kyoto Protocol (京都議定書) - A landmark for Japanese environmental policy. Princess Mononoke (もののけ姫) - A Studio Ghibli film often associated with environmental protection themes. Mottainai (もったいない) - Wangari Maathai popularized this Japanese term globally as a slogan for environmental protection.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

News Report

  • 環境保護の国際会議
  • 環境保護を巡る議論
  • 環境保護の重要性が高まる
  • 環境保護対策の強化

School Essay

  • 環境保護のためにできること
  • 環境保護の意識を持つ
  • 環境保護を学ぶ
  • 地域の環境保護活動

Business Meeting

  • 環境保護への貢献
  • 環境保護と利益の両立
  • 環境保護を考慮した経営
  • 環境保護基準の遵守

Political Campaign

  • 環境保護を最優先課題とする
  • 環境保護政策の推進
  • 環境保護のための法整備
  • 環境保護の旗手

Volunteer Recruitment

  • 環境保護ボランティア募集
  • 環境保護に興味がある方
  • 一緒に環境保護をしましょう
  • 環境保護の輪を広げる

Gesprächseinstiege

"環境保護のために、普段から気をつけていることはありますか? (Is there anything you usually watch out for for the sake of environmental protection?)"

"最近、環境保護に関するニュースで気になったものはありますか? (Has there been any news regarding environmental protection that caught your eye recently?)"

"学校や会社で環境保護の取り組みは行われていますか? (Are there any environmental protection efforts being made at your school or company?)"

"環境保護と経済の発展、どちらがより重要だと思いますか? (Which do you think is more important, environmental protection or economic development?)"

"環境保護団体に寄付したり、参加したりしたことはありますか? (Have you ever donated to or participated in an environmental protection group?)"

Tagebuch-Impulse

もしあなたが環境保護大臣だったら、最初にどんな法律を作りますか? (If you were the Minister of Environmental Protection, what kind of law would you make first?)

100年後の地球の環境保護はどうなっていると思いますか? (What do you think environmental protection on Earth will be like in 100 years?)

あなたの街で行われている環境保護活動について書いてください。 (Write about the environmental protection activities being carried out in your city.)

環境保護のために、自分の生活から何を減らすことができますか? (What can you reduce from your life for the sake of environmental protection?)

「環境保護」という言葉を聞いて、一番最初に思い浮かぶイメージは何ですか? (What is the very first image that comes to mind when you hear the word 'environmental protection'?)

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

It is used when discussing serious topics, like the news or a school project. For casual things like using a reusable bag, Japanese people usually say 'Eco' (エコ).

In theory, 'Hogo' (Protection) is about shielding the environment from harm, while 'Hozen' (Preservation) is about maintaining its natural balance. In practice, they are often used interchangeably, but 'Hozen' sounds slightly more academic.

You should say '環境を保護する' (Kankyou o hogo suru). You need the particle 'o' between the two words.

Yes, it typically appears at the N2 level, but the concepts are relevant for N3 as well.

Yes, but '野生動物の保護' (Protection of wild animals) is more specific. '環境保護' implies the whole habitat.

It is '環境保護団体' (Kankyou hogo dantai).

Yes, recycling is considered a major part of '環境保護活動' (environmental protection activities).

It is written as 環境保護.

The most direct opposite is '環境破壊' (Kankyou hakai), which means environmental destruction.

Yes, it is a formal noun. It is the appropriate word for business, news, and academic writing.

Teste dich selbst 180 Fragen

writing

Write a sentence using '環境保護' and '大切' (Important).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about why you recycle using '環境保護のために'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a short opinion (2 sentences) about government environmental policies.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Environmental protection' in Japanese clearly.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I am interested in environmental protection.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the word: 'Kankyou Hogo'. What does it mean?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Environmental protection is our duty.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '環境保護団体'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about teaching environmental protection to children.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce 'Kankyou Hogo Katsudou'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe one thing you do for '環境保護'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Hogo'. Does it mean 'Environment' or 'Protection'?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write: 'I like environmental protection activities.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write: 'The government should promote environmental protection.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write: 'From the viewpoint of environmental protection, this is bad.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Kankyou Hogo no Tame ni'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Kankyou Hogo Seisaku'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Identify 'Kankyou' in a sentence about trees.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write: 'Please cooperate with environmental protection.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write: 'He is a pioneer of environmental protection.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write: 'Environmental protection is a global issue.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Kankyou Hogo no Taisetsu-sa'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Chikyuu Kankyou Hogo'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify 'Hogo'. Does it mean 'Preserve' or 'Destroy'?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write: 'I sort trash for environmental protection.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write: 'The importance of environmental protection is increasing.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write: 'We must protect the environment.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Kankyou Hogo Dantai'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Kankyou Hogo wa Gimu desu'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Identify 'Kankyou' in a sentence about the city.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write: 'I want to help with environmental protection.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write: 'Environmental protection and economic growth are both important.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write: 'We are acting for environmental protection.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Kankyou Hogo no Tame no Shisaku'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Mottainai wa Kankyou Hogo no Kotoba desu'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Identify 'Hogo' in a sentence about a phone case.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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