Kiko Network has released the report “Japan’s Path to Net Zero by 2050,” which recommends greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets for 2030 and 2040 for Japan, along with policy measures to be taken in order to achieve Japan’s declared goal of net zero GHG emissions in 2050.

The report emphasizes that, in order for Japan to achieve net zero in 2050, Japan must set its GHG emission reductions target to at least -60% by 2030 (or -56% relative to 1990), -80% by 2040 (or -78% relative to 1990), and proposes the following ten points in order to achieve these targets:

(1) Legislate targets and processes to enhance them
(2) Introduce carbon pricing
(3) Set targets to end electricity generation from fossil fuels and nuclear power
(4) Adopt policies for a just transition
(5) Adopt policies to expand renewable energy
(6) Promote electric vehicles and a modal shift to walking, cycling, and public transportation
(7) Strengthen regulations on housing, buildings, and equipment
(8) Adopt policies to reduce waste and plastics
(9) Regulate F-gases
(10) Strengthen finance policies

The report also proposes policies and measures for each sector, calculates the projection of emission reductions in each of these sectors, and confirms that the proposed reduction targets can be achieved by promptly implementing appropriate policies and measures while strengthening them.

Report:

“Japan’s Path to Net Zero by 2050: 2030 and 2040 GHG Reduction Targets and Policy Recommendations”（PDF）
Appendix: Japan’s 2030 greenhouse gas reduction target (comparison of different base year) (PDF)

Written/Published by: Kiko Network

Published: March 19, 2021