Japan aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60% by 2035

The Japanese government has presented a new proposal that aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60% by fiscal 2035, compared to fiscal 2013 levels. The goal aims to strengthen the country’s commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

The plan, jointly proposed by the Ministry of the Environment and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, was discussed at a meeting with government officials. According to the plan, the 60% target for fiscal 2035 will be followed by a more comprehensive target of reaching 73% by fiscal 2040.

The government’s move comes in line with the Paris Agreement’s requirement to submit updated emissions reduction targets for 2035 to the United Nations by February. Japan currently aims to reduce emissions by 46% by fiscal year 2030. However, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has noted that emissions worldwide must be reduced by at least 60% by 2035 to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial levels.

The government is expected to include these targets in its draft plan to combat global warming, which is scheduled to be completed by the end of the year. The draft will be prepared in collaboration with relevant ministries, government agencies and ruling parties.