Tokyo [Japan]: Japan’s government has approved a plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60% by fiscal 2035, using fiscal 2013 levels as the baseline. However, it stopped short of adopting a more ambitious target despite calls from environmental advocates.
During a joint meeting of the Environment Ministry and the Economy, Trade, and Industry Ministry, officials and experts also agreed to a longer-term goal of a 73% reduction in emissions by fiscal 2040. These targets, while seen as progress, were criticized by some participants as insufficient to meet the pressing global climate goals outlined in the Paris Agreement.
The government is in the final stages of preparing the targets for submission to the United Nations, with a deadline set for February 2025.
According to Kyodo News, the plan includes sector-specific emissions reduction goals for fiscal 2040 compared to 2013 levels. These include cuts of 74 to 83% in the business sector, 64 to 82% in transportation, and 71 to 81% in households.
While the targets aim to balance economic and environmental priorities, experts have raised concerns that they may fall short of addressing the urgency of the climate crisis. Japan’s efforts will be closely watched as it works to meet its commitments and contribute to global climate action.