The Japanese government is deliberating a new target for greenhouse gas emissions, aiming for a reduction of 60% by fiscal 2035 compared to 2013 levels, as discussed during a recent joint meeting of the Environment Ministry’s Central Environment Council and the Industrial Structure Council from the industry ministry. Currently, the government has established a benchmark of a 46% decrease in emissions by the end of fiscal 2030.

During the meeting, officials outlined that their broader objective is to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. To achieve this ambitious goal, they believe it is necessary to cut emissions by 46% by 2030, escalate that reduction to 60% by 2035, and further intensify efforts to achieve a 73% decrease by fiscal 2040. This structured roadmap underlines the importance of a gradual yet significant reduction in emissions over the next few decades.