1. CO2 Emissions in Japan

• Fifth Largest Emitter Globally: Japan ranks fifth in global CO2 emissions, contributing about 3% of the world’s total emissions.
• Dependence on Fossil Fuels: Japan remains highly dependent on fossil fuels. After the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, the reduction of nuclear power led to increased reliance on coal, natural gas, and oil, resulting in higher CO2 emissions.
• Main Sources of Emissions: The key sources of emissions in Japan include power plants (especially coal-fired), transportation, and industrial sectors. Coal-fired power generation, in particular, is a significant contributor to the country’s CO2 emissions.

2. CO2 Emission Trends

• Recent Decline: In recent years, Japan has experienced a decline in CO2 emissions, thanks to the increased adoption of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies. Since 2013, emissions have been on a downward trend, and by 2020, they had decreased by about 18% compared to 1990 levels.
• Growth in Renewable Energy: The share of renewable energy, particularly solar and wind, in Japan’s energy mix has increased. Solar power installations have grown rapidly, supported by government subsidies, accelerating the adoption of renewable energy.

3. Japan’s CO2 Reduction Targets

• 2050 Carbon Neutral Goal: Japan aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. To reach this target, various policies and initiatives are being implemented.
• 2030 Intermediate Goal: Japan has set a target to reduce GHG emissions by 46% by 2030, compared to 2013 levels. This goal will be met through the expansion of renewable energy, promotion of decarbonization technologies, and improved energy efficiency.

4. Japan’s CO2 Reduction Initiatives

• Promotion of Renewable Energy: The Japanese government is actively working to increase the share of renewable energy in the energy mix. Solar power capacity is growing, and there are also efforts to expand wind power and introduce hydrogen energy.
• Energy Efficiency Measures: The industrial sector is adopting energy-saving technologies and improving efficiency. The automotive sector is also contributing to CO2 reductions through the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles (HVs).
• Carbon Pricing: Japan is considering introducing carbon pricing mechanisms, including carbon taxes, as an economic incentive to curb CO2 emissions. This would encourage businesses to reduce their carbon footprints through financial incentives.

5. Challenges

• Continued Reliance on Fossil Fuels: Japan’s heavy dependence on coal-fired power generation remains a significant challenge. Coal power contributes substantial CO2 emissions, and further reductions are necessary to meet climate goals.
• Nuclear Power: Since the Fukushima disaster, nuclear power has been a controversial issue in Japan. The country must balance its energy needs between renewable energy sources and potential nuclear power resumption.

Japan continues to pursue CO2 reductions through technological innovation and policy measures, while international cooperation will play a key role in achieving its long-term climate goals.