22

November 2019

FEATURE : Japan's Long-term Strategy under the Paris Agreement CURRENT TOPICS : · 2nd General Meeting of the African Clean Cities Platform and TICAD7 · G7 Environment Ministers’ Meeting and the Metz Charter on Biodiversity · Strengthening Measures on Fluorocarbons and International Expansion NATIONAL PARKS of JAPAN : Setonaikai National Park ◦ FEATURE ◦ Japan's Long-term Strategy under the Paris Agreement A foundation for the transition to a “decarbonised society”

This long-term strategy aims for a The Agreement stipulates its objective Additionally, towards achieving the paradigm shift over the next few to strengthen global responses to the 2°C target, due to the significant gap decades leading up to the middle threat of climate change by holding between the global reduction amount of this century to economic and the increase in the global average estimated to be required in the future social systems that emit virtually no temperature to below 2°C above and the reduction targets currently greenhouse gases. The long-term pre-industrial levels and pursuing set by countries, the Agreement strategy is also designed to maintain efforts to limit the increase to 1.5°C. invites countries to formulate and and develop the economy and society It also stipulates that efforts are to communicate a long-term strategy within this context. be made to make swift reductions for low greenhouse gas emission in greenhouse gases to achieve a development (hereinafter, long-term 1. Background balance between anthropogenic strategy). emissions and removals by sinks of (1) International efforts and greenhouse gases (carbon neutrality (2) Changes in responses to the decarbonisation requirements under throughout the world) in the second climate change issue in finance and the Paris Agreement half of this century. All countries business sectors The Paris Agreement was are obligated to implement domestic Significant changes that have adopted at COP21 in December 2015. measures toward this purpose. not been experienced before are

2 JEQ JAPAN Environment Quarterly | Vol.22 now taking place with regards to International Renewable Energy that may lead to restraints on the climate change measures. An energy Agency (IRENA) has estimated use of fossil fuels that emit large transition based on lowering the cost the additional investment needed amounts of CO2, including coal, of renewable energy and the trend for decarbonisation of the energy such as examples of engagement and for companies and financial sectors industry. This figure could reach divestments. to aim at zero GHG emissions are more than 29 trillion USD by 2050, characteristic changes. Namely, as these investments drive new (3) Viewpoint on addressing the there is a growing possibility that economic growth and increase issue of climate change within the the evaluation and assessment of a GDP worldwide by 0.8% in 2050, Sustainable Development Goals company will depend on whether revealing the magnitude of potential. The “2030 Agenda for or not it can promptly make the Additionally, in the financial sector, Sustainable Development” was transition to decarbonisation. This there is a growing movement to adopted by the United Nations is indicated in Prime Minister Abe's regard non-financial information, General Assembly in September remarks that, "responding to climate such as corporate environmental 2015. Within the 2030 Agenda, change is no longer an additional efforts, as criteria for investment which clearly states that “no one cost for the economy, but a growth decisions, such as ESG investing. is left behind” on the earth, 17 strategy for the future." Global ESG investment in 2018 goals and 169 targets were set as increased by approximately two “Sustainable Development Goals The scale of the market in quadrillion yen compared to 2012, (SDGs)". The SDGs, along with the event of global initiatives and ESG investment in Japan grew the Paris Agreement, are universal under the Paris Agreement has more than four times from 2016 to international targets for global been examined. For instance, the 2018. Moreover, there is a movement sustainable growth. Responses to

Japan's Mid-term and Long-term Targets for GHG Reduction

FY2017 (confirmed report value) Baseline year 1.292 billion tonnes Emissions [1.2% reduction compared to previous Emissions FY2013 1.408 FY2020 (hundred million billion tonnes fiscal year] 〈8.4% reduction Over 3.8% tonnes CO2 FY2005 1.397 equivalent) compared to FY2013〉 reduction billion tonnes (6.5% reduction compared 16 *Figures at the time compared to FY2005) to FY2005 FY2030 of reduction target setting 26% reduction 14 Compared to FY2013 (1.042 billion tonnes) Sinks As early as 12 possible in the second half of 80% this century 10 Sinks reduction Decarbonisation (virtually 8 by 2050 zero emissions)

6

4

2

0 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050

Source: Prepared from “FY2017 Greenhouse Gas Emissions (confirmed report values)”, “Plan for Global Warming Countermeasures” and “Long-term Strategy under the Paris Agreement”.

Japan's Mid-term and Long-term Targets for GHG Reduction

JEQ JAPAN Environment Quarterly | Vol.22 3 Long-Term Strategy under the Paris Agreement as Growth Strategy（1/2）

Chapter 1: Basic Concept Provisional Translation

Vision: Proclaiming a “decarbonised society” as the ultimate goal and aiming to accomplish it ambitiously as early as possible in the second half of this century, while boldly taking measures towards the reduction of GHGs emissions by 80% by 2050 * an unconventional vision of an “ideal future model” * contributing to the achievement of the long-term goals of the Paris Agreement, including efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5℃

Basic Principles of Policy Realising “a virtuous cycle of environment and growth” towards the vision with business-led disruptive innovation, Swift implementation of actions from now, contributing to the world, Action Towards a bright Society with Hope for the Future [Factors: Achievement of SDGs, Co-creation, Society5.0, the Circulating and Ecological Economy, leading country in solving problems]

Chapter 2: The Vision of Each Sector and the Direction of Measures

1.Energy 4.Community and Living Pursuing every option for promoting Realising carbon neutrality, energy transitions and decarbonisation resilient and comfortable communities and lives by 2050/ creating the “Circulating and 2.Industry Ecological Economy” Decarbonised manufacturing 5. Measures for Carbon Sinks Conserving the natural environment and 3.Transport creating sustainable new values in agriculture, Contribution to the challenge of forestry and fisheries industries to secure ”Well-to-Wheel Zero Emission” sufficient carbon sink for decarbonised society

Overview of Long-term Strategy (1/2)

climate change that involve major Abe instructed that meeting is June 2019. Subsequently, it was transitions in socioeconomic systems, established toward the formulation submitted to the United Nations on 26 could be factors that influence the of the Long-Term Strategy under June. achievement of other SDGs. Further, the Paris Agreement and relevant in order to achieve the SDGs, it is ministries and agencies expedite 3. Contents and direction of policies necessary to promote climate change deliberations under this meeting. indicated in the long-term strategy measures in an integrated manner In August 2018, the Meeting in line with elements of SDGs not on a Long-term Strategy under the The long-term strategy is related to climate change. In the Paris Agreement (chaired by the comprised of five chapters. The context of the Paris Agreement and President of the Japan International strategy incorporates the direction of the SDGs in the business world, Cooperation Agency (JICA), Shinichi policy countermeasures in detail, but there is increasing awareness that Kitaoka) was launched to engage in due to the large volume, not all can addressing environmental issues discussions on the basic concepts be introduced here. The following within corporate strategies and core of the long-term strategy, held on points give a shortened explanation. business, not only as corporate five occasions. Consequently, a Please refer to the original strategy social responsibility (CSR), makes recommendation for the government for details (*1). corporate structures more resilient was compiled in April 2019. Chapter 1 sets forth the basic and brings new growth. Following the recommendation, concepts of the long-term strategy. the government developed a draft Three points concerning the 2. Formulation process of the long- of the long-term strategy. Following characteristics of the strategy have term strategy public comment, the “Long-Term been selected and introduced below. Strategy under the Paris Agreement” In June 2018, Prime Minister was approved by the cabinet on 11 (1) Decarbonised society: a shared

4 JEQ JAPAN Environment Quarterly | Vol.22 ◦ FEATURE ◦

Long-Term Strategy under the Paris Agreement as Growth Strategy（2/2） Chapter 3: Cross-sectoral Measures to realise “a virtuous cycle of environment and growth” 1. Promotion of Innovation Promoting innovation for practical application and wider usage of cross-sectoral decarbonisation technologies that lead to drastic reduction of GHG, achieving cost that allows commercialisation (1) Progressive environment innovation strategy (2) Innovation in economic and social systems/Lifestyle innovation Fuel Cell Buss CO2 Capture Plant 2. Promotion of Green Finance Appropriate “visualisation” of innovation, and mobilisation of finance for the innovation by financial institutions (1) Mobilising green finance through TCFD※ disclosures and dialogues ※ Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (2) Promoting initiatives to expand ESG finance TCFD Consortium ESG Finance High-Level Panel 3. Business-led International Application and International Cooperation Promoting environmental technologies and products that excel/ Promoting ”Co-innovation” that benefits both sides in collaboration with partner countries (1) International application of decarbonisation technologies linked to policy / institution building and international rule-making

(2) Increasing infrastructure development and investment that contributes to CO2 emissions reduction JCM Partner Countries Meeting (3) Building platforms for decarbonised societies on a global scale Chapter 4: Other Measures ・Human resource development ・Just transition ・Government-led inativeit s ・Integrative promotion in collaboration with development of a resilient society by adaptation to climate change ・Carbon pricing (expert-driven technical debate is necessary) Chapter 5: Review and Implementation of Long Term Strategy ・Review: Flexibly considering of the long-term strategy taking circumstances into account and as necessary reviewing it, about every 6 years ・Implementation: Analysis that takes future change in situation into account/Partnerships/Dialogue

Overview of Long-term Strategy (2/2)

goal and long-term vision By specifically declaring and growth" through disruptive Japan aims for a “decarbonised the direction of long-term goals innovation on a scale that has never society”, namely a society in which and policy, the long-term strategy been seen before. Likewise, it aims there are virtually no emissions of enhances investment foreseeability, to significantly reduce domestic greenhouse gases such as CO2 (*2), points out areas that require GHG emissions and make maximum to be the ultimate goal and aims to disruptive innovation, and provides contributions to global emissions accomplish it as early as possible in a foundation to promote research reduction. As the chair country of the second half of this century. and development and investment in this year's G20 meetings, Japan This goal is "ambitious" in the companies that do business consistent communicated and shared these international context on the following with this direction. Additionally, by concepts with the world. two points. First, it does not adopt a presenting this type of vision, Japan In order to achieve these aims, conventional approach to goal setting will lead international debate on it will become important to make based on accumulation (*3), rather the creation of future frameworks maximum use of the power of the presents an "ideal image" of the and standards in the area of climate business sector which has significant future as a "goal". Second, it is the change. finance and world-class technologies. first declaration of an aim to realise In bringing together wisdom from a "decarbonised society" as soon as (2) A virtuous cycle of environment around the world to promote possible by a developed nation in the and growth: basic principles in policy innovation, it is necessary not only context of contributing to achieving towards achieving the vision to reform the supply side, but also the long-term goals of the Paris Toward achieving the above- to advance the development and Agreement, including pursuing efforts mentioned long-term vision, the diffusion of technologies to create to limit the temperature increase to long-term strategy aims at realising new demand consistent with the trend 1.5°C above pre-industrilal levels. a "virtuous cycle of environment of decarbonisation. Meanwhile, by

JEQ JAPAN Environment Quarterly | Vol.22 5 building a system in which financing involve attaching importance to offices, promotion of diffusion, and for decarbonisation (green finance) the problems and needs of citizens, lifestyle shift. circulates through companies local communities and companies, engaged in addressing climate as well as to their preferred changes, Chapter 3 presents three key change, and rethinking the market, to create a vision of society in which policies for achieving a "virtuous infrastructure and institutions in light people have a "shared understanding" cycle of environment and growth". of the products and technologies on solving these problems. Thus, it In "Promotion of Innovation", born out of this system, exhaustive can be called an approach to applying it is deemed essential to promote domestic diffusion can be achieved. the technologies, socioeconomic “innovation for practical application Moreover, as it becomes more certain systems and lifestyles linked to and wide use” for technologies to that responses to climate change will decarbonisation to this vision be adopted in the society, together be increasingly required over the of society. From the perspective with innovations to create cutting- mid- and long-term, superior products of realising a virtuous cycle of edge technologies. A "Progressive and technologies can be expanded environment and growth, it is a topic Environment Innovation Strategy" internationally. A framework to that is expected to be materialised will be formulated this year based on drive the transition to this type of and applied in the future. various elements, including setting decarbonisation is to be devised (see clear targets such as cost, long-term Chapter 3). Chapter 2 presents visions commitments including the size of in the respective sectors of investment, and setting challenges (3) A bright society with hope for "Energy", "Industries", "Transport", based on needs. Likewise, innnovaion the future: approaches to creating a "Community and Living" and the in Economic and Social Systems and decarbonised society direction of policies and measures. Lifestyle innovation will be promoted One perspective revealed in the In the area of "Energy", the toward the practical application and recommendations of the Meeting on vision entails that the government wide use of technologies. a Long-term Strategy was the need will continue to explore all options In "Promotion of Green to show the way to transition to an to promote energy transformation Finance", a framework in which ideal society. The long-term strategy and decarbonisation. Specifically, financing for decarbonisation (green states that, "a decarbonised society the government will work steadily finance) circulates through companies for which this strategy aims should to make renewable energy a engaged in addressing climate change also be a bright society with hope stable main power source and to will be created, and initiatives will for the future," and asserts that, "it is overcome systematic constraints be supported and promoted, not only important to create an environment and ensure coordination, including in the financial sector, but also in the to work voluntarily and actively cost reduction, innovative research industrial sector, focused on TCFD, by sharing the model of such a and development, examination of an international initiative discussed at society with as many stakeholders as institutions to facilitate self-reliance the G20. Expansion of ESG investing possible." Meanwhile, this society from Feed-in Tariffs (FIT), and will also be promoted, including may differ depending on generation, overcoming limitations to large scale support for issuance of green bonds position and location, and thus introduction. and local financial institutions. takes into account five factors (1. In the area of "Community In "Business-led Promotion Achievement of SDGs, 2. "Co- and Living", the vision entails of International Application and creation" as the basis of continued the creation of a "Circulating and International Cooperation", policies innovation, 3. Working with Society Ecological Economy" to advance are indicated on improving business 5.0, 4. A "circulating and ecological local decarbonisation and achieve the environments, such as working to economy" that realises the SDGs SDGs with integrated improvements connect business to institutional locally, and 5. Becoming a "leading on the environment, economy and and policy development in partner country in solving problems" through society, and the achievement of countries, and additionally on the sharing and applying best practices carbon neutrality on the part of public and private sectors coming from communities). The long- communities and companies where together to create frameworks term strategy also stipulates that it is possible, before 2050. The to compare and assess energy the government will "support each long-term strategy incorporates the efficiency, and institutions for energy stakeholder in sharing awareness promotion of decarbonising actions efficiency labeling and international for a decarbonised society, forming on the part of each member of society standardisation. a future vision of the society and from the perspectives of technological taking proactive action". This will development targeting housing and Chapter 4 compiles policies

6 JEQ JAPAN Environment Quarterly | Vol.22 ◦ FEATURE ◦ on human resource development; predictions. However, if we continue Notes an integrated approach in building a as is without taking any actions, it is *1 See the following URL for the full resilient society to adapt to climate not hard to imagine the challenges text and outline of the long-term change; just transition; government's that Japan will face related to our strategy. efforts to lead the society; and carbon environment, economy and society, Full text: https://www.env.go.jp/ pricing. Of these, carbon pricing is including not only climate change, press/111913.pdf a concept that includes emissions but involving ways of business, Outline: https://www.env.go.jp/ trading schemes and carbon tax, and ways of working, maintenance of our press/111914.pdf a variety of opinions were voiced communities and relations between *2 Achieving a balance between on this point at the Meeting on a cities, as well as our ways of living. anthropogenic emissions by Long-term Strategy. The direction The aim of the long-term strategy is sources and removals by sinks of of policy presented in the long-term to create an environment in which we greenhouse gases in the second strategy conforms to the contents of can voluntarily and actively engage half of this century (carbon recommendations. from our respective standpoints to neutrality throughout the world). move in the certain direction of a *3 For instance, the 2030 reduction Chapter 5 discusses a future "decarbonised society" to achieve targets (NDC) set by Japan in way forward. Concerning review a "bright society with hope for the anticipation of the mid-term future of the long-term strategy, a review future" in line with the SDGs, rather a few decades ahead, and are cycle of about six years is presented than passively await the changes feasible reduction targets based considering the cycle of related plans. that may come. While this approach on the compilation of measures, However, reviews of the content of itself is challenging, thankfully, we policies and technologies backed measures and policies will be carried have the potential of a variety of by ample consideration of out periodically and flexibly based on decarbonising technologies, such technological constraints and various conditions. as renewable energies, hydrogen issues of cost, etc. Further, the long-term strategy and carbon recycling. Additionally, differs from concrete action plans advanced digital technologies such for which PDCA management is as AI and IoT, as well as trends in appropriate. The strategy presents consumption shifting from "things" the ideal direction of policies and to "services" and transformation promotes the active engagement in our sense of values, are suited of various stakeholders. Thus, to decarbonising technologies and it places emphasis on scientific have the potential to make disruptive analysis dependent on future changes changes in our societies and ways of in conditions, provision of this living, making them carbon neutral, information, and cooperation and resilient to disasters and enjoyable. dialogue with various stakeholders We must achieve a "virtuous including younger generations. cycle of environment and growth" to realise a decarbonised society. We 4. Conclusion will continue to be engaged under consistent policy, focused on a vision Amidst uncertainties about the for society linked to co-creation year 2050, and later into the future, and shared understanding, scientific it is not possible to make accurate analysis, partnerships and dialogue.

Nobuhiro Kino Director Low-carbon Society Promotion Office Global Environment Bureau

JEQ JAPAN Environment Quarterly | Vol.22 7 ◦ CURRENT TOPICS 1 ◦

2nd General Meeting of the African Clean Cities Platform and TICAD7 Toward Clean and Healthy Cities in Africa!

The Ministry of the Environment, together with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Yokohama City, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), held the “2nd General Meeting of the African Clean Cities Platform (ACCP)” on 26-27 August as an official side event of the Seventh Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD7) on 28-30 August, in Yokohama. Approximately 400 people participated including representatives from 38 African Katsumata, gave remarks, stressing African nations and to move the axis of countries, making the meeting the the importance of improving activities to Africa. Accordingly, UN- largest among the numerous official citizens’ awareness on separation Habitat, headquartered in Africa, taking side events of TICAD7. and reduction of waste through on the core role in the ACCP Secretariat environmental education. in Africa will lead to strengthening of Summary of the 2nd General On the second day, the “Africa the secretariat function. Meeting of the ACCP Solid Waste Management Data (2) Enhancing safety at landfill Book 2019”, prepared by JICA, was sites: Most African countries are On the first day, State released, and the need for ongoing unable to respond to increasing Minister of the Environment, collection and updating of basic amounts of solid waste, causing waste Tsukasa Akimoto, gave the data was confirmed. Moreover, to pile up. Thus, landfills are faced opening address, emphasizing discussions took place on the need with various problems including fires, the importance of contributing for fund mobilisation and raising landfill collapse and environmental to improved waste management the priority of waste management in pollution. Japan has developed the in African countries through the African countries in order to achieve Fukuoka Method, a simple, low-cost sharing of Japan’s systems and improvements in the field. At the High technology to enhance safety and technologies. Subsequently, Japanese Level Session, representatives from improve environments at landfills, companies interested in developing African nations, participating cities and has a history of introducing this business in Africa introduced their and international organisations gave technology. An ACCP pilot project technologies and business activities their high level statements. Minister is to be implemented at the Hulene via presentations and booth displays. of the Environment of Japan, Yoshiaki Likewise, the “Guidebook for Harada, highlighted the following three Environmental Education on Solid areas in particular for strengthening Waste Management in Africa”, measures to contribute to improved a report prepared by JICA that waste management in Africa. highlights environmental education (1) Strengthening the ACCP activities in Africa, was released. secretariat function: Because ACCP Lastly, Parliamentary Vice-Minister is a platform for African nations, it is of the Environment, Takaaki important to enhance ownership by Statement from Minister Harada

8 JEQ JAPAN Environment Quarterly | Vol.22 dump site in Mozambique in an aim Yokohama Action Guidance for the ACCP to enable active application of the 1. Expanding the ACCP participation 7. Improving waste collection & transportation Fukuoka Method to address related • encourage participation of development partners to the system ACCP • strengthen the cooperation with stakeholders noting problems in African countries. The • strengthen the cooperation with private sector informal sector plays important roles 2. Strengthening the ACCP secretariat function 8. Enhancing safety at landfill sites lessons learned from this project • request UN-Habitat to play a core role in the ACCP • disseminate “Fukuoka Method” (semi-aerobic landfill will be compiled into a manual to be secretariat in Africa system) through developing manual 3. General Meeting of the ACCP 9. Promoting 3R and proper waste treatment shared with African countries, aiming • in future, convene the General Meeting of the ACCP in • enhance a public-private partnership to increase conjunction with the TICAD investment for waste management business to disseminate the Fukuoka Method. • hold a workshop on various occasions 10. Encouraging awareness-raising activities (3) Capacity Building: In order 4. Capacity building & co-creation of knowledge • utilize “Guidebook for Environmental Education on Solid • establish a local training centre in Africa Waste Management in Africa” to engage in appropriate waste • conduct study tours in Africa 11. Creating impacts on the ground management, development of related 5. Continuous collection of the basic data • implement the ACCP pilot project at the Hulene landfill • utilize “Africa Solid Waste Management Data Book 2019” site in Mozambique laws and human resources to carry • facilitate training program in cooperation with local 6. Monitoring progress towards achieving SDGs governments in Japan (Yokohama, Tokyo, Osaka, out operations are essential. With • encourage monitoring on the SDGs indicators Fukuoka, Kitakyushu) the aim of developing such human Outline of the Yokohama Action Guidance for the ACCP resources, Japan is promoting the establishment of a training center in within the landfill, to stabilise the the Educational Partnerships for Africa, in addition to implementing landfill to prevent collapse and fire, Innovation in Communities (EPIC) trainings in Japan for learning from and to purify leachate. The project is Africa, to enhance the resilience and Japan’s experiences and technology. scheduled to commence in November sustainability of cities as a part of Likewise, Japan is partnering with of this year. activities based on the G20 Action local governments that have extensive Agenda on Adaptation and Resilient experience in waste management, Outcomes of TICAD7 Infrastructure adopted at the G20 including Yokohama City, Tokyo Ministerial Meeting on Energy Metropolitan Government, Osaka The government of Japan has Transitions and Global Environment City, Fukuoka City and Kitakyushu been leading the TICAD conference for Sustainable Growth held in City, to implement more effective since 1993, co-hosted by the United Karuizawa, Nagano on June 15 and capacity building. Nations, United Nations Development 16. State Minister Kiuchi also called Programme (UNDP), World Bank attention to the initiatives of the Outcomes of the 2nd General and the African Union Commission ACCP. Meeting of the ACCP (AUC). The Leaders’ Declaration In his address at the opening (Yokohama Declaration 2019) adopted Lastly, as an outcome of the session, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on 30 August incorporated intentions meeting, the “Yokohama Action described ACCP as, “a platform by to “emphasise the need to address Guidance for the ACCP”, which which Japan, 36 countries in Africa, other pressing environmental issues stipulates the future direction of and a host of UN organisations join such as reducing marine plastic litter ACCP activities, was adopted. The forces, aiming at reducing, reusing, and pollution, Illegal, unreported, outcomes of the meeting were input and recycling waste in African cities. and unregulated (IUU) fishing, at TICAD7, moving further forward It is a kind of undertaking that takes and promoting the utilisation and in promoting waste management in decades, not years.” sustainable use and conservation of African countries. biodiversity, clean water and sanitation, State Minister of the as well as waste management” in a Waste Management Project in Environment, Minoru Kiuchi, section on “deepening sustainable and Mozambique participated in a session on climate resilient society”. change and disaster risk reduction The Fukuoka Method (semi- on 29 August to provide information aerobic landfill) will be introduced on, (1) the necessity of creating plans African Clean Cities Platform at the Hulene dump site in Maputo adjusted to the differing situations http://africancleancities.org/ City of Mozambique as an ACCP and needs of regions based on model project. This method, a the latest scientific knowledge on Shigemitsu Tanaka technology for landfill management climate change predictions within Senior Environment Expert Office for Promotion of Sound developed in Japan, is designed to comprehensive measures to address Material-Cycle Society Environmental Regeneration and facilitate the decomposition of waste adaptation and disaster prevention; Material Cycles Bureau by creating paths for air and water and (2) support provided to establish

JEQ JAPAN Environment Quarterly | Vol.22 9 ◦ CURRENT TOPICS 2 ◦

G7 Environment Ministers’ Meeting and the Metz Charter on Biodiversity

At the G7 Environment Ministers’ Meeting, held in Metz, France, on 5-6 May, Japan’s Minister Harada spoke on Japan’s initiatives and contributed to the adoption of the Communique and Charter on Biodiversity.

G7 Environment Ministers’ Meeting in Metz, France

Minister Harada advised on the following initiatives at the G7 Environment Ministers’ Meeting. (1) Ahead of the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Energy Transitions and Global Environment for Sustainable Growth on 15-16 toward April next year, when the Convention on Biological Diversity June, Japan, to contribute to law takes effect, to contribute to COP10 that took the lead in the achieving the 1.5ºC target, will achieving Aichi Targets related to adoption of the Aichi Targets, Japan formulate a long-term strategy protected areas. will continue to actively contribute based on the Paris Agreement In subsequent follow-up, to the development of the post-2020 that aims for a “decarbonised concerning (1), a cabinet decision was global biodiversity framework based society” as early as possible in made on 11 June on the “Long-term on the Charter. the latter half of this century. Strategy under the Paris Agreement”. Moreover, Japan is advancing Concerning (2), an agreement was measures ahead of other nations reached on the “G20 Implementation to control the emissions of Framework for Actions on Marine Metz Charter fluorocarbons, including revision Plastic Litter” at the G20 in June. on Biodiversity of the “Fluorocarbons Emission Likewise, at the subsequent G20 We, the G7 Ministers and Member of the European Commission in charge of the environment, together with the Ministers in charge of the Environment Restraining Law”. Osaka Summit, the “Osaka Blue of Chile, Fiji, Gabon, Mexico, Niger, Norway partcipatng in the Metz meetng on May 6th, 2019, under the witness of the Minister of the Environment of (2) Japan will aim to construct an Ocean Vision” that aims to reduce Egypt;

I. Acknowledging the importance of addressing biodiversity as an essentaa part of the G7 diaaogues, in consideraton of the increasing pressures seriousay threatening biodiversity at the gaobaa aevea, and buiading effective framework involving additional pollution by marine plastic on G7/G8 reaevant work on biodiversity, as the “Potsdam Initatve”, the “Kobe Caaa for Biodiversity”, and the “Carta di Siracusa”, and on its evaauaton in the Eamau Progress Report;

II. Acknowledging that biodiversity, in additon to having intrinsic vaaues, paays a vitaa roae for maintaining emerging and developing countries litter to zero by 2050, was shared. aife-sustaining systems, and therefore is of paramount importance to aaa aife on Earth incauding human beings; recognizing that biodiversity and the entrety of ecosystems (terrestriaa, soia, freshwater, and marine) consttute the naturaa capitaa that suppaies us with food, raw materiaas, medicine, sheater, fertae soias, caimate reguaaton and water, mitgates or prevents naturaa disasters and provides us with opportunites for empaoyment, recreaton, among a myriad of other ecosystem services and recognizing to address the problem of marine that the aoss of biodiversity and degradaton of ecosystems, due to unsustainabae human actvites, consttute both an environmentaa probaem, as weaa as a socio-economic probaem which afects human weaa- being;

III. Recognising the important roae of indigenous peopaes and aocaa communites, women and youth with plastic litter at the G20 in June. Charter on Biodiversity regard to biodiversity, and the need to engage with them to advance eforts towards its conservaton and sustainabae use;

IV. Acknowledging the outcomes of 14th Conference of the Partes to the Conventon on Bioaogicaa Diversity (3) Concerning biodiversity, Japan (CBD COP14) (Sharm-Ea-Sheik 2018) incauding the Sharm Ea-Sheikh Decaaraton, and notng with concern the affirmaton in Decision 14/1 that “…dedespite many positve actons by Partes and others, most of the Aichi will actively contribute to Concerning (3), the “Metz discussions on new global targets Charter on Biodiversity” was adopted to ensure that initiatives under at the G7 Environment Ministers’ the Aichi Targets are continued Meeting. The Charter includes the Naoki Amako and further developed. Further, decision that the G7 nations and other Deputy Director International Strategy Division based on the revised Natural stakeholders make commitments Global Environmental Bureau Environment Conservation Law on biodiversity and support the Makiko Yanagiya approved in the Diet last month, development and implementation Deputy Director Biodiversity Strategy Office Japan will establish offshore of a post-2020 global biodiversity Nature Conservation Bureau seafloor nature conservation areas framework. As the host nation of the

10 JEQ JAPAN Environment Quarterly | Vol.22 ◦ CURRENT TOPICS 3 ◦

Strengthening Measures on Fluorocarbons and International Expansion Life-cycle Managment of Fluorocarbons

This article will introduce Japan’s by this law. To reduce emissions 6% of the amount of energy-related domestic measures on addressing due to leaks from equipment, users CO2 emissions of the world, even if all fluorocarbon emissions and initiatives of commercial refrigerators and air Parties comply with the requirements in the international expansion conditioners are obligated to carry of the Kigali Amendment. For this of the life-cycle management of out periodical inspections of their reason, it is necessary to promote fluorocarbons. equipment. They are also required proper management of fluorocarbons to report the annual total amount of throughout their life-cycles, including Japan’s measures to address leakage if it exceeds a certain amount. recovery, recycling and destruction, on fluorocarbons Efforts made and measurements taken a global scale. to reduce leakage from equipment Japan has already started Fluorocarbons are substances are reported to encourage other users. implementing demonstration projects utilised as refrigerants in mainly Also, to prevent discharge into the air with Thailand and Vietnam since 2018 air conditioners, refrigerators and upon disposal of equipment, users are to recover and destruct fluorocarbons other freezing equipment that are required to recover and appropriately using the Joint Crediting Mechanism quite familiar in our everyday lives. destruct or recycle fluorocarbons from (JCM) scheme. We aim to expand Among these, CFCs and HCFCs all commercial equipment. initiatives to address the life-cycle cause depletion of the ozone layer. management of fluorocarbons and to While HFCs do not deplete the ozone In addition to regulations contribute to reducing fluorocarbon layer like CFCs and HCFCs, they based on laws, the Ministry of the emissions worldwide. are strong greenhouse gases (from Environment and the Ministry of hundreds to more than 10,000 times Economy, Trade and Industry promote stronger than carbon dioxide). Thus, the development of low-GWP or non- control of fluorocarbon emissions fluorocarbon refrigerants, as well as is extremely important from the the development and introduction of perspectives of both ozone protection products that use these refrigerants. and global warming mitigation. Japan has two laws to regulate Toward global countermeasures on Fluorocarbon destruction device of the same fluorocarbons. The “Act on the fluorocarbons type as that to be introduced in Vietnam Protection of the Ozone Layer Through the Control of Specified An examination of global trends Substances and Other Measures” in fluorocarbon countermeasures regulates production and consumption reveals that although countries are of fluorocarbons based on the regulating manufacture and import Montreal Protocol. The “Act on based on the Montreal Protocol, Rational Use and Proper Management initiatives in recovery and disposal of Fluorocarbons” provides from equipment using fluorocarbons Scene of fluorocarbon recovery comprehensive approaches throughout have not always been put in place. On in Vietnam the life-cycles of fluorocarbons. To top of remaining HCFCs and CFCs, promote transitions to low-GWP the amount of global emissions of Hidekazu Kuraya (Global warming potential) or non- HFCs is expected to increase from Director Office of Fluorocarbons Control Policy fluorocarbon refrigerants, a system of about 900 million t-CO2eq to about Global Environmental Bureau Designated Products is also provided two billion t-CO2eq in 2030, around

JEQ JAPAN Environment Quarterly | Vol.22 11 NATIONAL PARKS OF JAPAN

Setonaikai National Park Seascapes where people live Setonaikai in harmony with nature National Park Islands and islets dot the calm sea in the Setonaikai National Park, where fish- ing boats come and go and quiet sunsets dazzle the seascapes, with terraced mandarin orange orchards and seaside towns, where people live in harmony with nature and the splendid and colorful natural scenery. Location of Setonaikai National Park View of Setonaikai The Setonaikai was one of the first areas of Japan to be designated a national park in 1934, along with Unzen and Kirishima. Located in Western Japan, the park can be reached from Tokyo by plane and rail in about 2-3 hours, and from Osaka by rail in about 1-3 hours. The calm waters of the Setonaikai are dotted with islands, both big and small, offering impressive scenic views from various angles, whether from land, boats or lookout spots. Since ancient times, this area has flourished as an important water transportation route and has had a thriving population of people. It is characterised by welcoming View of sea dotted with islands from Mt. Shiude scenery created by people living together with the nature (Kagawa Prefecture) of the sea and islands. As such, there are people living within the national park, as well as shrines and temples, island hopping, sea kayaking, Stand Up Paddleboard rice paddies and farms, and fruit orchards. The nature and sightseeing boats. On land, visitors can experience of this national park has been protected alongside the activities including cycling on the Shimanami Kaido, coexistence of humans and nature. camping on uninhabited islands, trekking and cooking classes. Additionally, in recent years the islands of the Setouchi—a world travel destination Setonaikai have served as the stage for an international The Setonaikai, also called “Setouchi”, was the arts festival, with tours of islands to see the artworks. only place in Japan selected by the New York Times as Have a look at Setonaikai National Park’s online videos one of the “52 Places to Go in 2019”. and our official Facebook page. Visitors can experience a variety of activities at the Why not come to Setonaikai National Park and Setonaikai National Park and surrounding areas. Water see not only our amazing natural scenery, but also activities include cruises around the island-dotted seas, experience our culture, glimpse the lives of local people, and enjoy art!

Video on Setonaikai National Park: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=JfYkSv7L1fo&feature=youtu.be

Ryoko Sakuramata Park Ranger Chugoku-Shikoku Regional Environment Office Tomonoura Taiami Sea Bream Netting Festival National Park Division (Hiroshima Prefecture)

Japan Environment Quarterly Vol.22 November 2019 web http://www.env.go.jp/en/ e-mail [email protected]

© 2019 Ministry of the Environment Editorial Assistance: Institute for Global Environmental Strategies