Japan’s environment and industry ministries finalized a plan to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 60% from 2013 levels by 2035, an upgrade from its earlier 46% target for 2030. The move aligns with global climate goals under the Paris Agreement but has faced criticism for being insufficient.

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• Target: Reduce GHG emissions by 60% from 2013 levels by 2035, up from the current 46% target for 2030.
• Long-term Goal: Japan aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 with a 73% reduction by 2040 on a linear trajectory.
• Global Alignment: The revised target is part of Japan’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and aligns with the U.S. goal of a 61%-66% reduction by 2035.
• Criticism: Environmentalists and some experts argue the target is inadequate, as IPCC recommends a 66% cut from 2013 levels to limit global warming to 1.5°C.
• Approval: Despite opposition, expert panels from the environment and industry ministries approved the draft target.
• NDC Submission: Japan will submit the updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the United Nations in February after public consultation.
• Energy Strategy: The target integrates with Japan’s “Green Transformation (GX) 2040 vision,” combining decarbonisation and industrial policy.
• Global Requirement: Under the Paris Agreement, countries must submit revised climate action plans aligning with the 1.5°C goal by February.