Japan has unveiled an ambitious plan to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 60% by 2035, compared to 2013 levels. While the Japanese environment ministry describes the goal as an important step toward addressing climate change, critics argue that it falls short of what is needed to meet the Paris Agreement objective of limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
The government has also set a longer-term target of reducing emissions by 73% by fiscal 2040, as part of its updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the global climate effort. The ministry maintains that these targets are in line with the goal of keeping global warming well below 2°C, with an emphasis on ensuring a sustainable and low-carbon future.
However, climate activists have expressed concerns that the targets are insufficient. Masayoshi Iyoda, a climate expert, pointed out that scientists have recommended a more ambitious 81% emissions reduction by 2035 for Japan to stay on track with the 1.5°C goal. Kazue Suzuki, of Greenpeace Japan, echoed these sentiments, calling for a 78% reduction to reflect Japan position as a major industrial power.
Japan role as the world fifth-largest emitter of carbon dioxide underscores the significance of its emissions reduction targets. The country has faced increasing pressure to take bolder action to mitigate its impact on the global climate. A key part of Japanâ strategy includes transitioning to renewable energy as the leading source of power by 2040, while also continuing to rely on nuclear energy as part of its energy mix.
Despite these commitments, critics remain unconvinced that Japan current plan will be enough to avoid catastrophic climate impacts, calling for more aggressive policies and actions in the coming years.
