Japan is to enforce what will allegedly be the world's most rigorous emissions restrictions on diesels as of 2009.

The new regulations, formed following recommendations from the Japanese environment council, are aimed at cutting emissions of particulate matter (PM) to zero and significantly reducing nitrogen oxide emissions.

Proposals to make filters more accessible are also under consideration, including offering tax incentives for carmakers to lower the cost of installing filters.

Through the new measures, Japan is attempting to bring its diesel emissions regulations in line with those of Europe and the US, behind whom it is said to lag, according to the Yomiuri Shimbun.

The change in the law came after a series of court rulings relating to lawsuits filed over road traffic-induced pollution, including accusations of administrative negligence, such as the government's delay in taking measures against PM.