New green technology being pioneered in Japan is taking the ice out of the skating rink.

The popularity of skating has soared in Japan in recent years, but many rinks are closing down due to financial difficulties.

Portable petrochemical slabs have proved to be the solution.

The resin-based panels were originally manufactured by a Spanish company but have become all the rage in the Far East.

An iceless rink has all the glide of the real thing but the energy bills are a lot lower, making for a cheap and eco-friendly alternative.

© Independent Television News Limited 2008. All rights reserved.