Submission for Talanoa Dialogue
Key Message from Japan- Talanoa JAPAN 1. WHERE ARE WE? – Current progress of Japan’s actions and achievements
 Japan has already achieved its target of reducing emissions by 6% compared to1990 levels during the 1st commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol. We aremost likely to achieve the Cancun target.
 GHG emissions in FY2016 have declined by 64 million tons (CO2 eq., 4.6%)
compared to FY2005. The key contributors were the industrial and transportation
sectors for energy-oriented CO2 emissions, and removals by sinks through forest
management. Japan has successfully achieved the positive outcomes for GHG
emission reductions based on the “Plan for the Global WarmingCountermeasures” and through a wide range of domestic measures.
 In a global context, Japan announced the “Action for Cool Earth 2.0” andcommitted to provide approximately 11.6 billion US dollars (1.3 trillion yen) of
climate finance to developing countries in 2020 and has been providing financial
support and technical assistance to developing countries through ODA (23.3
billion US dollars), GCF (1.5 billion US dollars), and the Joint Crediting Mechanism(JCM) finance support program.
2. WHERE DO WE WANT TO GO? – Japan’s future targets and vision Japan commits to reduce “GHG emissions by 26% compared to FY2013 levels in
FY2030” domestically. In addition, under a fair and effective internationalframework applicable to all major Parties, Japan leads international community
so that major emitters undertake emission reduction in accordance with theircapacities, and also aims to reduce GHG emissions by 80% by 2050 while Japan
achieves both climate action and economic growth.
 Moreover, we will contribute toward achieving the world’s drastic emission
reduction through the “Co-innovation”. Japan will work together with partnercountries by sharing its advanced technology and know-how, and establish amutually beneficial relationship with partners that can create a market for
products, services, technologies reflecting on their challenge and needs.
Co-innovation aims to generate transformation in technology, socio-economic
systems and lifestyles.
3. HOW DO WE GET THERE? – Areas of contribution by Japan Japan will further promote drastic emission reduction domestically throughinnovation in the areas of hydrogen, storage battery, CCUS etc. Such technologies
have large potential to reduce GHG emissions dramatically. We will accelerateefforts and support further climate actions among all stakeholders.
 In addition, Japan promotes Co-innovation through international cooperation tocreate and scale up successful models in partner countries, by strengthening
partnerships, advancing institutional development and ownership, as well as
mobilizing private finance through utilizing public funds.
We are pleased to announce the launch of the Japan Talanoa Dialogue Platform(website1) with the intention to collect a wide range of in-deep knowledge andexperiences, share the lessons learned with all the participants in the Talanoa
Dialogue, create awareness, raise domestic ambitions, and promote activities.
Japan hopes to contribute to a successful COP 24 through our active
participation in the Talanoa Dialogue.

1

http://www.env.go.jp/earth/ondanka/talanoa_japan/index.html

Table of Contents
Preamble.................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Where are we? .......................................................................................................................................................... 2
1.

Steady progress in domestic mitigation actions ............................................................................................ 2
Promotion of energy efficiency ......................................................................................................................... 3
Promotion of next-generation automobiles and improvement of fuel efficiency............................................. 4
Low /decarbonized energy generation by renewable energy ........................................................................... 4
Realizing a hydrogen based society ................................................................................................................... 5
Actions by industrial sector ............................................................................................................................... 6
Other initiatives ................................................................................................................................................. 72.

Support for developing countries － the "ACE 2.0" .................................................................................... 7
Bilateral Assistance through ODA ...................................................................................................................... 8
Mobilization of private finance through public funds ....................................................................................... 8
Diffusion of low carbon technology by utilizing market mechanism (Joint Crediting Mechanism: JCM) .......... 8
Good practice of capacity building: GCF access support ................................................................................... 9
Observation of global greenhouse gas concentration by satellite（GOSAT） ................................................ 10

Where do we want to go? ....................................................................................................................................... 10
1.

Achievement of Japan’s mid-term and long term target ............................................................................. 10

2.

Drastic GHG emission reduction through Co-innovation ............................................................................. 11

How do we get there? ............................................................................................................................................. 11
1.

Significant domestic emission reduction through innovation ..................................................................... 12
Promotion of energy efficiency and large-scale introduction of renewable energy ....................................... 12
Research and development (R&D) of innovative technologies based on the national strategy ..................... 13
Accelerating efforts by broad range of Non-State actors ................................................................................ 15

2.

Promotion of international cooperation with continuous Co-innovation ................................................... 16
Successful models for Co-innovation ............................................................................................................... 18
Contribution to scientific knowledge............................................................................................................... 18

Submission for Talanoa Dialogue- Talanoa JAPAN April 2018
Preamble
Japan recognizes the importance of addressing the increasing threat of climate change in recent years. In
order to achieve the 2 °C goal of the Paris Agreement it is necessary to realize a decarbonized society thatbalances anthropogenic emissions by sources and removal by sinks of greenhouse gases (GHG) in thesecond half of this century. Japan has already over-achieved the target of the Cancun Agreements
underpinned by a PDCA cycle (The Plan–Do–Check–Act Cycle) within the frame work of the "Plan for
Global Warming Countermeasures", and is steadfastly implementing the Nationally Determined
Contribution (NDC). Japan aims for the drastic emission reduction through further practice of energy
conservation and maximum usage of renewable energy. Japan is determined to blaze the trail intransformative innovations such as hydrogen energy system and Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage(CCUS).
Japan is making the utmost efforts to reduce GHG emissions both domestically and globally. Japan has
already provided assistance of 23.3 billion US dollars in 2015 and 2016, which is consistent with thepledges of 1.3 trillion yen in 2020 (equivalent to 11.6 billion US dollars2) under the Action for Cool Earth
2.0 (ACE2.0) announced in 2015. For future international cooperation, Japan proposed the principle of“Co-innovation”. Co-innovation is not an introduction of technology or systems from one side to another;it establishes a mutually beneficial relationship, can lead to the creation of a market for products, services,
technology that is customized to each country, and enables transformative change in socio-economic
systems and lifestyles. Based on the principle of Co-innovation, Japan will simultaneously accomplish
climate change actions and economic growth, and share the outcomes with the world (Figure 1).

Advancing climate actions
while solving socio-economic
problems in each country

Twin Pillars of Co-Innovation

Acceleration of innovation(ex) Hydrogen, CCUS, socioeconomic transformation, etc.

Deployment and Disseminationof Innovation

International Cooperation
Stimulate New Innovation
with Partner Countries

Figure 1： Japan’s contribution to the world’s drastic emission reduction through Co-innovation
2

Exchange rate: 115 Japanese yen＝1 US dollar
1The global emission reduction actions by the private sector must be encouraged. For this reason, it isimportant to increase the visibility of GHG emission reduction, develop rules to enhance climate change
actions, and share best practices in the private sector.
Japan highly appreciates the efforts paid by the COP22 and COP23 Presidencies who had designed theTalanoa Dialogue. Given the importance of inputs from a wide range of Non-State actors, Japan has
launched a special website for the Dialogue and encourages the inputs from various actors including local
governments, companies and NGOs in Japan. This website enables Japan to develop its comprehensive
inputs to the Dialogue prior to COP24, particularly through integrating best practices and knowledges
obtained by various actors. The Japanese government calls on all stakeholders to share their knowledge,
lessons, and cases in terms of useful structures, plans and analysis that contribute to achieve the 2 °C
target3, explaining the purpose and schedule of the dialogue on the website. The government will
synthesize those inputs and submit them as an input by October 29th under the UNFCCC process, and thisinformation will be made public with a view to raising ambition and communicating efforts made.
This submission will aim to present the role and the achievements by the Japanese government (Where
are we?), vision of the future (Where do we want to go?), and the commitments (How do we get there?).
Where are we?
1. Steady progress in domestic mitigation actions
In March 2011, Japan was struck by the Great East Japan Earthquake and sequentially by the Tokyo
Electric Power Company Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plants accident. Though the disaster created adrastic change in the internal and external energy environment, Japan successfully fulfilled the promiseof reducing GHG emissions by 6% in comparison to 1990 levels during the first commitment period of
the Kyoto Protocol (2008-2012) by galvanizing efforts of all stakeholders. In order to continue theimplementation of global warming countermeasures in the post-KP1 period, Japan has partially revised
the Act on Promotion of Global Warming Countermeasures in 2013 with a view to promotecomprehensive and phased approach to tackle global warming.
Following the Cancun Agreements, Japan pledged a target of 3.8% reduction by FY2020 as compared to
the FY2005 levels in 2013. In addition, Japan submitted its INDC in 2015, including Japan’s FY2030
mid-term target of reduction 26% compared to the FY2013 levels.
Moreover, in light of progress of the discussion on the Paris Agreement, the "Plan for Global WarmingCountermeasures" was adopted by the Cabinet in May 2016 after a number of commissions consisting of3

http://www.env.go.jp/earth/ondanka/talanoa_japan/index.html
2diverse stakeholders including government officials, private companies, and researchers. The Plan
includes basic points related to the measures to be taken by business operators and citizens, and thepolicies and measures that national and local governments should take for the achievement of the NDC.
In addition, progress in implementation of the measures and the status of achievement of targets will be
rigorously monitored annually based on periodical assessments and reviews by relevant councils as partof the PDCA cycle. Furthermore, a revision of the Plan will be considered every three years, taking into
account Japan’s GHG emissions and absorptions.
Preliminary reports for FY2016 showed the total amount of GHG emissions in Japan to be 1,322 million
tons (CO2 eq.), indicating a decrease of 4.6% (64 million tons of emission) as compared to FY2005 (1,386
million tons). While emissions of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) increased in the refrigerant sector as aresult of substitution from ozone-depleting substances, energy-oriented CO2 emissions in the industry
and transportation sectors declined. In addition, the amount of removals by activities for sinks following
the Kyoto Protocol reached 58.8 million tons in FY2015. As a result of those factors contributing to the
reduction in emissions, the 2020 target of the Cancun Agreements will most certainly be achieved.
The following is a list of the latest outcomes of key measures in the "Plan for Global WarmingCountermeasures".
Promotion of energy efficiency
Enhancing energy efficiency in each sector“Act on Rational Use of Energy” sets standards regarding energy efficiency efforts for the industry,
commercial, and transportation sectors. The Act also shows efforts targets for the rational use of energy
and the measures to be taken systematically to achieve such targets, and requires business operatorswith 1,500 or more kl/year energy consumption to report their activities on energy efficiency to thegovernment and the Japanese government provide guidance as appropriate. Additionally, the efficiencyof electrical appliances and automobiles has been improved by “Top Runner Program under the Act”
which Japanese government sets the efficiency standard targets each categories (appliances andautomobiles) and companies (manufactures and importers) are obliged to make effort to meet thetargets.
The Japanese government subsidized the replacement of facilities with high energy efficiency effects atfactories, workplaces, etc. In FY2017, it supported two types of applications: 1) “factory and workplace
units” that do not limit targeted facilities (411 cases) and 2) “facility units” that limit the targetedfacilities but have a relatively simple procedure (2,497 cases).
The Net-Zero Energy House (ZEH) project supported new house owners, prospective buyers of newly
built houses, and house owners for introducing highly efficient equipment (components of ZEH such as
3high efficiency air conditioning, hot water supply facility, and lighting).
(Column: LED lighting renovation project at Byodoin Temple Phoenix Hall)
Byodoin Temple Phoenix Hall, the world heritage site in
Kyoto with approximately 1000 year of history, underwent
a large scale renovation over two years from September
2012. They adopted Toshiba Lighting Tech’s LED lightings,
which

has

great

advantages

forcontrolling light

distribution, energy conservation and long product life. In
Japan, it is popular to open shrines and temples to publicin the night for visitors. The LED lighting successfully©Byodoinreduced power consumption by 55% in comparison to conventional* halogen lamp lighting. Toshiba hasdeveloped this new high-performance LED lighting that achieves both low power consumption and thebeautiful night view of the Temple at the same time. This project showed new potentials for LED lighting
not limited to energy saving performance.
(*Comparison of 6 conventional halogen lamp lighting which total power consumption is about 3 kWh)and 16 LED lighting (total power consumption about 1.36 kWh))
Promotion of next-generation automobiles and improvement of fuel efficiency
Next-generation automobiles and vehicles with high fuel efficiency were promoted by implementing
measures such as tax reduction or exemption (automobile tax and light vehicle tax), eco-car tax cut(that governs motor vehicle tonnage tax and automobile acquisition tax), and the standards based on
the Act on Rational Use of Energy that facilitate improvement of energy efficiency.
Hydrogen stations are essential for expanding the use of fuel cell-powered vehicles. Japan has
subsidized hydrogen supply facility development projects operated by the private sector.
The tax treatment (customs duty exemption and gasoline tax exemption) enabled the achievement of
the bioethanol targets of 440,000 KL (2016FY) of crude oil equivalent.
Low /decarbonized energy generation by renewable energy
Reduction of CO2 emission intensity in electric power sector
In April 2016, the benchmark indices related to thermal power generation facilities defined in the Act on
Rational Use of Energy were revised according to the energy mix. In addition, for electricity, gas, and oilenergy suppliers, the non-fossil power supply target was reviewed in order to align with the energy mix
based on the Sophisticated Methods of Energy Supply Structure Law which promotes the use ofrenewable energies and nuclear power as well as the effective use of fossil fuels.
4

In December 2017, the Natural Resources and Energy Working Group of Global Environment
Subcommittee under the Industrial Structure Council followed up the progress of efforts through avoluntary framework in the electric power industry.
Renewable energy has been spreading across Japan as solar power generation prompted a total
expansion by 50 GW in 2017 after introducing the feed-in-tariff system in 20124.
With regard to CCS, Japan has conducted domestic large-scale demonstration and experiments tocommercialize CCS technology by around 2020, including research and development to reduce costs andimprove safety, an assessment of the environmental burden associated with CO2 separation andrecovery, and a geological survey to identify domestic reserve sites .
(Column: Introduction of geothermal power plant in Toya-ko(Lake-Toya) hot spring resort area
Toya-ko hot spring resort area introduced rare andcutting-edge

geothermal

power

generation.

Binarygenerators (output 41 kW) produce electricity by turbines
using the evaporation generated through a heating medium
with a low boiling point. The geothermal heat is primarily©KOBELCO

used for electricity generation and secondary as a hot spring
resource. Residents in the community share high uptake on
resource conservation and its effective use, and also theassociation of Toya-ko hot spring supports the geothermal
development. The plan called “Toya-ko Town Comprehensive
Development Plan” states the effective use of geothermalheat and the project is implemented as a part of this plan.

Realizing a hydrogen based society
Hydrogen is known for its unique environmental characteristics of producing electricity and heat without
CO2 by utilizing fuel cell technologies. Japan regards hydrogen as a good energy carrier for renewableenergy since renewable energy can be converted to hydrogen as well as hydrogen can store, carry andutilize renewable energy in a variety of situations.

4

IEA Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme5

A subsidy for the introduction of commercial fuel cells (Ene Farms) to spread the use of fuel cells has
been provided for 236,000 equipment in FY2017 (delivery decision base). Moreover, by FY2016, thesubsidy was given to 1472 FCV (delivery decision base) to promote the introduction of clean energy
vehicles. In 2016, a subsidy for the installation of 2 FCVs (business operation buses) was approved as apart of the regional transportation greening project, and the buses were installed accordingly in March2017.
For the purpose of encouraging the use of fuel cell vehicles, by FY2017, approximately 100 commercial
hydrogen stations were built in total by the private sector utilizing the subsidy provided. In addition,
regional hydrogen stations generated through a renewable energy source were developed and 19
stations were opened in total by the end of November 2017.


Number of FCV5: 1,807



Number of Hydrogen Station opened6: 100

Actions by industrial sector
GHG Emissions Accounting, Reporting and Disclosure Program
Based on the Act on Promotion of Global Warming Countermeasures, emitters that exceed a given
threshold of GHG emission are required to report their emission quantities to the Japanese government
on an annual basis which are collected and disclosed it to the public. It aims at facilitating voluntaryactions by stakeholders for tackling global warming by visualizing the information of their emission.
Promotion of voluntary efforts by industrial sector
Each industrial sector in Japan voluntarily sets GHG emission reduction targets and develops action plans.
These plans focus on reducing GHG emissions in their business activities by applying a PDCA cycle andreducing global GHG emissions through providing low-carbon products and services. In fact, theindustrial sector reduced energy-oriented CO2 emissions in FY2016 by 10% compared with FY2013 levels.
The Japanese government ensures their voluntary actions against global warming through strict
periodical reviews and assessments.
The Japanese government sets up a study group in coordination with industrial sector to discuss thequantification of GHG emissions reduction through low-carbon products and services from the industrial
sector and published the concept in March 2018.

5

http://www.cev-pc.or.jp/tokei/hanbai.html
6 http://www.cev-pc.or.jp/suiso_station/index.html
6Promotion of J Credit System
The Japanese government is promoting the “J-Credit System”, which registers GHG reduction or carbon
sinks through installation of energy efficient and renewable energy equipment or forestry management.
Private companies, farmers, forest owners, local governments register a project and the Japanese
government provides them with support in monitoring and verifying process. The credit is supposed to
be issued after the monitoring report is submitted. As of March 2018, the system registered 690
projects and issued credits of 3.43 million t-CO2. The credits can be utilized not only for carbon offsets
but also for the national reporting scheme, and disclosure of information regarding climate actions forinvestors and consumers.
The Japanese government provides support for credit bidding and matching of J credit. In addition, at
the G7 Ise Shima Summit in May 2016, the first G7 carbon offsets were made in cooperation with 111
corporations and local governments. It showcased Japan's engagement to tackle climate change, andcontributed to enhance momentum for domestic understanding and cooperation for countermeasuresagainst global warming and raise awareness on the merits to choose low carbon products and services.
Other initiatives
To fulfil the obligation to reduce HFCs emissions of the Montreal Protocol adopted in 2016, Japanese
government submitted to the parliament a draft amendment to the Ozone Layer Protection Law. Japan
also implements a wide range of measures including conversion of fluorocarbons for systematic
reduction, conversion to low greenhouse gas and non-fluorocarbon products, and prevention of leakage
during product use as well as collection and appropriate disposal of fluorocarbon related products.
In May 2016, Japan revised the Basic Plan for Forest and Forestry, to promote the removals from theforest carbon sink through appropriate forest management and conservation.
2. Support for developing countries － the "ACE 2.0"
At COP21 in 2015, Prime Minister Abe announced the "Action for Cool Earth 2.0 (ACE 2.0)"; a pledge toincrease financial support to developing countries from about 8.9 billion US dollars (1 trillion yen) toabout 11.6 billion US dollars (1.3 trillion yen) in 2020, and strengthen innovation7. Major support
programs are as follows:
In 2015 and 2016, Japan provided developing countries with a total of approximately 23.3 billion US
dollars through ODA, OOF and private contributions.

7

Exchange rate: 115 Japanese yen＝1 US dollar
7

In 2015, Japan decided to contribute 1.5 billion US dollars to GCF. Japan annually provides approximately
2.5 million US dollars for the Climate and Clean Air Coalition to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants(CCAC). In 2017, Japan also provided 5 million US dollars for Capacity Building Initiative for Transparency(CBIT).
In line with the pledge of ACE2.0, Japan has achieved the following progress:
Bilateral Assistance through ODA
Japan implemented 434 projects in 91 countries in 2015 and 2016, based on the request and needs ofthe recipient countries. In particular, Japan focuses on adaptation projects for countries vulnerable tothe impacts of climate change such as island countries. Assistance to these island countries amounted to44.1 million US dollars in 2015 and 2016.
Some examples of Japanese climate change projects through ODA are as follows;

Installation of renewable energy facilities such as construction of geothermal power plants in
Laguna Colorada geothermal area in Bolivia and Hurghada wind power plant in Hurghada city in
Egypt enabled mitigation measures for the impacts of climate change.

Construction of the Pacific Climate Change Center in Samoa which supports climate change-related
operations of the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), as well as
capacity building of human resources in the Oceanian region, strengthened resilience for climatechange and environment in the region.

In Colombia, the capacity of the national disaster risk management system improved to mitigate
risks including flood control measures. In Mozambique, weather forecasting capacity was enhanced
by improving climate observation capability and assisting the improved issuance of disasterwarnings based on meteorological data.

Mobilization of private finance through public funds
Japan has encouraged mobilizing private funds, using public funding as an incentive, throughco-financing with the private sector via JBIC and the mobilization of trade insurance by NEXI. In 2015 and2016, more than 3.8 billion US dollars were mobilized out of total assistance of 23.3 billion US dollars.
Diffusion of low carbon technology by utilizing market mechanism (Joint Crediting Mechanism: JCM)
Through the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM), government-run projects will contribute to the reduction
and absorption of international emissions in the range of 50 million to 100 million t-CO2 eq. by FY2030.
This will also contribute to spreading low carbon technology, and accumulate experiences on MRV for8both Japan and JCM participating countries. The Japanese government has signed bilateralmemorandums on JCM with 17 countries, and already implemented more than 120 projects. The
cumulative emissions reduction and absorption by these projects will reach approximately 7 million
t-CO2 (direct effect up to FY2030) in total. Several JCM projects have resulted in leading transformation
in infrastructure and market systems towards a low carbon society in partner countries.
Examples of good practices:

Encouraged the installation of low-carbon technologies (e.g., installation of high-efficiency
transformers, high-efficiency refrigerators, etc.) in the partner countries and making the effect of
the operation visible. These projects facilitates the partner countries to realize the long-time
operation returns from GHG reduction and fuel consumption improvement, and contributed todeveloping procurement standards for the installation of high-spec technologies.

Constructed small scale pilot plants initially to foster the understanding of the JCM project by local
governments, central government officials and local residents. The appropriate management andoperation of the plants with additional support also served for installing (large scale) full plantfacilities (e.g., development of waste collection and separation in installation of power plants
fueled by waste, establishment of plant operation manual for waste heat recovery power
generation, implementation of OJT, etc.).



Smoothly installed low-carbon technology (e.g. high efficiency air conditioning, introduction ofvarious renewable energy, etc.) in partner countries by combining JCM and technical cooperation
by JICA (e.g. formulation of master plan on climate change, energy conservation standards andlabeling system, identifying mitigation projects suitable to regions as a result of cooperation among
local governments of Japan).
Partner Countries: 17Expected 50 to 100 million tons CO2 cumulative reduction and absorption by FY2030



Expected expansion of business scale up to 1 trillion yen by FY2020

Good practice of capacity building: GCF access support
In cooperation with IRENA, Japan invites foreign government officials for practical training to support
the introduction of renewable energy in Small Island Developing countries (SIDs) etc. In the past four
years, 93 administrative officials from the Asia-Pacific Small Island Developing countries and regions
participated in the seminars to understand the mechanisms of various climate funds such as GCF andto learn how to develop concept notes for the project.

9

Observation of global greenhouse gas concentration by satellite（GOSAT）
Japan contributes to the refinement of climate change forecasting by continuous observation of global
GHG concentrations using the GHG observation satellite "IBUKI" (GOSAT). In addition, to support
domestic and international actions on GHG reductions, we are also encouraging other countries to use
the satellite observation data in comparison and evaluation of their emission report.


Investment Amount: 40 billion yen (GOSAT-2)



Observation frequency: Possible to measure at least twice in every 6 days anywhere in the world(Column: Satellites for global warming observation)
The GHG observation satellite "IBUKI" (GOSAT)
has continuously been observing global GHG
concentrations from space ever since its launch in2009 (Picture). “IBUKI” was the world's firstspacecraft to measure the concentrations of CO2
and methane, the two major greenhouse gases.
It confirmed that the results estimated from theobservational data of "IBUKI" roughly coincidewith the projection based on inventory on the©JAXA

anthropogenic methane concentration in the global mega city areas such as the Tokyo metropolitan
area that is in the vicinity of natural gas / oil production / refining areas. This finding indicates thepossibility of utilizing satellite observation data for parties to report GHG amounts in accordance with
the Paris Agreement. The successor "IBUKI 2" (GOSAT-2) drastically improves the observation accuracy
and is scheduled to be launched in 2018. GOSAT2 is expected to contribute further in refining climatechange forecasting through its continuous observation. The Japanese government will facilitate
capacity-building opportunities so that countries can utilize the observation data for comparison andevaluation with GHG reports.
Furthermore, “SHIKISAI” (GCOM-C), carrying a SGLI (Second generation GLobal Imager), was launched
in December 2017. “SHIKISAI” will improve our understanding of climate change mechanisms throughlong-term monitoring of aerosols and clouds, as well as vegetation and temperatures, in the land andocean regions.
Where do we want to go?
1. Achievement of Japan’s mid-term and long term target
Japan aims to achieve the objective stated in Article 2 of the UNFCCC that is the "stabilization of GHG
concentrations at a level that would not prevent dangerous anthropogenic (human induced)
interference with the climate system", and the 1.5 ℃ or 2 ℃ targets articulated in Article 2-1 (a) of
the Paris Agreement. To this end, our best efforts must be directed towards the realization of a10

decarbonized society that balances anthropogenic emissions by sources and removals by sinks of GHG in
the second half of this century. Japan is committed to continuously working towards achievement of thetarget of “reducing emissions to 26.0% compared to FY2013 level in FY2030” as described in our NDC.
Moreover, at the G8 L'Aquila Summit Leaders' Declaration of 2009, Japan supported the developed
countries’ goal of an 80% or more reduction in GHG by 2050 compared to 1990 levels or that of recent
years. The Plan for Global Warming Countermeasures states "based on the Paris Agreement, under a fairand effective international framework applicable to all major Parties, Japan leads the international
community so that major emitters undertake emission reduction in accordance with their capacities,
and aims to reduce GHG emissions by 80% by 2050 as its long-term goal while Japan achieves bothclimate action and economic growth".
2. Drastic GHG emission reduction through Co-innovation
It is necessary to create a global-scale decarbonized society so as to meet the Paris Agreement goal, andis desirable to practically achieve zero emission by 2050 with the autonomous mitigation measurestaken by all countries.
Japan will promote the world innovative high-end infrastructure, products and services, which areelaborated through the experiences of significant emission reduction. Japan will also contribute tocreating a global-scale decarbonized society through Co-innovation benefitting both Japan and thestakeholders.
In collaboration with partner countries and relevant stakeholders, Japan will contribute to transforming
the world into decarbonized society. This can be achieved through enhancing transparency in terms of
GHG emissions, reduction activities, and investment for global warming measures, identifying
challenges and needs, and advancing mutually beneficial innovations. This leads to both creation of a
global sustainable society and economic growth.
How do we get there?
In order to meet these goals described in previous section, all countries should make further efforts foremissions reduction. Furthermore, it is important that as many countries as possible shift their
reduction targets to an economy-wide emissions basis and improve transparency regarding emissions
reduction.
For the implementation of climate change measures, it is important to design the policies to generate
the utmost impacts on environmental conservation. At the same time these measures should addresssocio-economic challenges taking into consideration the linkage between these challenges.
11Japan possesses internationally competitive technologies such as hydrogen and storage battery.
Making most of our technologies, Japan will work toward drastic reduction of domestic GHG emission
and also keep contributing to the worldwide GHG emission reduction to the maximum extent, and playa leadership role to address both economic growth and climate change. Japan will formulate andcommunicate a long-term low GHG emission development strategy well ahead of 2020 deadline.
1. Significant domestic emission reduction through innovation
Promotion of energy efficiency and large-scale introduction of renewable energy
Japan promotes domestic actions thorough energy efficiency and makes efforts to introduce renewableenergy to the maximum extent. These are considered as the main pillars of measures against global
warming, and will also contribute to energy security by increasing the rate of energy self-sufficiency
leading to a decrease in primary energy imports, improving the balance of payments and strengthening
industrial competitiveness.
Japan will promote the following initiatives:
Promotion of energy efficiency
Enhancing energy efficiency by sector
Japan will keep striving to achieve targets using regulatory measures based on the Act on Rational Useof Energy, with subsidies and tax support measures.
For further improvement of energy efficiency, in the industrial, commercial and transportation sectors,
the Japanese government is submitting to the Diet a bill to revise the Act on Rational Use of Energy.
The amendment includes the certification of energy-efficiency efforts by multiple business operators sothat the Japanese government evaluates the activities appropriately and fairly under the Act. In
response to the increasing trend of e-commerce, the definition of consigners in the existing law will berevised so that it certainly includes e-commerce retail business operators as legal subjects to promote
their energy efficiency actions.
Promotion of next-generation automobiles and improvement of fuel efficiency
Japan will promote the spread of next-generation automobiles (HV, EV, Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle (PHV),
Fuel Cell Vehicle (FCV), Clean Diesel Vehicle (CDV), Compressed Natural Gas Vehicle (CNGV) Etc.) sothat next generation cars can make up 50% to 70% of new car sales by 2030.
Energy efficiency and CO2 reduction of residential houses and buildings
Japan will accelerate the deployment of the net Zero Energy House (ZEH) and the net Zero Energy
Building (ZEB) with annual energy consumption by combining drastic energy efficiency and renewableenergy. The Japanese government promotes a wide range of measures including cost reduction and12improvement of public awareness in order to achieve the target of net energy zero consumption fromnewly constructed housing and building on average, respectively by FY2030.
Low /decarbonized energy generation by renewable energy
In order to ensure the effectiveness of actions towards achieving the goals under the voluntary
framework advanced by electric power generation industry and the electricity liberalization, Japan will
implement the policy measure articulated under the Act on Rational Use of Energy and theSophisticated Methods of Energy Supply Structure Law.
Japan will introduce and expand renewable energy resources, carefully considering the burden on
citizens, and will properly address issues such as stable energy supply, cost and environment. Japansupports start-ups by local companies that supply locally generated energy through renewable
resources (electricity and heating) and services based on the values of saving and storing energies. This
will promote energy security and decarbonized local community through a new model, which is the
combination of creating awareness among local people to develop and utilize renewable energies
and, thereby using it to benefit their own community.
The government will strongly support cost-effective renewables projects that do not rely on the FIT
system. For example, for the introduction of renewables such as geothermal power generation
facilities, Japan will subsidize facilities to monitor the spilling state, calories, and components, and also
to support feasibility studies on existing hot springs for multi-stage use, as well as projects that
introduce facilities to utilize hot spring heat by private enterprises.
Research and development (R&D) of innovative technologies based on the national strategy
Since Japan is aware that continuing the conventional and existing actions are not enough to makesubstantial and further reductions of GHG emissions in line with the Paris Agreement, Japan will
promote research and development of innovative technologies based on the " National Energy andEnvironment Strategy for Technological Innovation towards 2050" formulated in 2016. In addition to
the core technologies that form the integrated technologies and systems of energy systems, R&D will
target the areas of energy conservation, energy storage, energy creation, CO2 fixation and effective
utilization. The total amount of CO2 reduction in the target fields selected in this strategy is estimatedmore than 5 billion tons. Therefore, if these technological developments succeed and are applied,
together with the application of advanced technologies that have already developed anddemonstrated in the selected technical field, the global reduction of GHG emissions will be about thesame level or more (on a scale of several billion tons to 10 billion tons) by around 2050.
Cases of R&D of innovative technologies are as follows:13HydrogenHydrogen has the potential to diversify Japan’s primary energy supply structure and achieve drastic CO2
reduction. Japan decided on the Basic Hydrogen Strategy in December 2017 to achieve the world’s firsthydrogen-based society. It includes the existing roadmap for introduction and diffusion of individual
technologies. Moreover, it presents hydrogen as a new carbon-free energy option like renewable energy.
Based on the strategy, Japan will strive to realize the supply costs of hydrogen (20 yen/Nm3) which is thesame level of as that of gasoline and LNG, and advance the initiatives on both supply and utilization side.
On the supply side, Japan will advance a project to develop an international hydrogen supply chains,connecting the manufacturing of hydrogen from Australian brown coal, etc. and transporting it to Japanto utilize cheaper raw materials available. In addition, as the leading case of hydrogen production in thelocal area, the world's largest CO2-free hydrogen production project is in progress at Namie, Fukushima
Prefecture in Japan. We will also utilize hydrogen produced in Fukushima during the Tokyo Olympic andParalympic Games in 2020.
Japan will accelerate the use of hydrogen mainly in the transportation and power generation sectors.
Towards the expansion of the deployment of the FCV, it will integrate activities for technologicaldevelopment, regulatory reform and strategic development of hydrogen stations. It will also enhancefurther actions to commercialize hydrogen power generation, with the world's first demonstration in
Kobe City.
Japan aims to further develop energy carriers that enable efficient transport and storage of hydrogen,and promote research and development of next generation fuel cells composed entirely of electrolytes,
electrodes, etc., and support basic technologies. Japan will also develop technologies that economically
produce energy carriers using renewable energy without releasing CO2, and technologies that extractenergy by directly burning it (hydrogen dedicated power generation technology, etc.).
Storage battery
A next generation storage battery is being developed that achieves an energy density more than seventimes the current cost of 1/10 or less, and enables a travel distance of 700 km or more on one charge, at
low cost, and with high safety, which exceeds the limits of existing mainstream lithium ion batteries
currently in use.
CO2 capture, utilization, storage technology (CCUS)
In FY2018, Japan has allocated 15.1 billion yen in CCS's empirical development and geographical survey
to commercialize CCS, which is a large-scale CO2 reduction technology, at lower cost.
Japan is actively involved in the intergovernmental forum that aims for international expansion of CCS
14

such as CSLF. In order to promote international standardization of CCS technology, Japan leads thediscussion in collection and storage of CCS.
Japan also actively promotes bilateral cooperation in this area, including a Memorandum of Cooperation(MoC) with the United States. Also Japan supports the formulation of projects, including joint Feasible
Study of CCUS project formation with countries in North America, Latin America, the Middle East andSoutheast Asia. Especially with the United States, as one of the pillars of bilateral Energy cooperation,
Japan and United States decided to cooperate with CCUS project last year. Indonesia is supporting theirfirst CCS demonstration under the JICA technical cooperation. Saudi Arabia uses CCUS technology to
manufacture CO2-free hydrogen and ammonia from crude oil and formulates a master plan to create a
global supply chain.
Power Electronics Technology
Gallium nitride used for blue light emitting diodes (LEDs) etc., for which Professor Hiroshi Amano andothers won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2014, has excellent durability against voltage. It can be thinnerthan silicon that is a similar type of material. For this reason, energy loss is reduced by about one tenth,so an energy saving effect is expected. To further disseminate energy saving technologies, Japan willconduct R & D and empirical projects for practical application to power conditioners for solar cells using
this type of power electronics technology, microwave ovens, etc.
Cellulose nanofibers
Cellulose nanofibers are a carbon-neutral material with 5 times the strength, but one fifth the weight ofiron. It will be utilized in automobiles parts, home appliances, residential building materials, etc. This willassist in verifying how much reduction of CO2 emissions can be achieved by reducing the weight of car
bodies and improving heat insulation.
Creation of energy
To improve energy conversion efficiency and lower the cost, Japan will develop next generation solar
cells that are completely different from current solar cells, utilizing new structures and new materials(quantum dots · perovskites etc.).
Accelerating efforts by broad range of Non-State actors
Science Based Target（SBT）
Global major companies are taking the lead on climate change action, not only seeing it as a risk but also
as a new business opportunity. The Science Based Targets (SBT) initiative, in which businesses set theirown mid- to long-term reduction targets, has attracted attention worldwide and Japanese companies
such as Sony and Toyota are also joining the initiative. In FY2017 Japan provided support to 63
15

companies which aim to have their targets verified by the SBT. Specifically, for companies without the
SBT validation, the Japanese government offered guidance on the SBT criteria as well as development
methodology of the targets, examined the consistency of the reduction targets developed by eachcompany with the SBT standards, and estimated emissions in supply chains, thus encouraging businesses
to take part in the movement. In March 2018, Japan organized a joint workshop event inviting all thecompanies that received support. At the workshop, each company had an opportunity to share theirmotivations to set a SBT and discuss any challenges and solutions. Currently, 14 Japanese companies
hold approved SBTs, and Japan aims to increase this number to 100 by the end of FY2020.
 Number of Companies supported: 63
 Number of Companies with approved SBTs by the end of FY2020 (target): 100
Innovation for Cool Earth Forum (ICEF)
To achieve climate goals, Japan has hosted an international conference called the “Innovation for Cool
Earth Forum (ICEF)” annually in October since 2014. The ICEF brings together global leaders and experts
from business, academia and the public sectors to promote discussions and cooperation on innovation,and help disseminate innovations in those fields. Through this conference, we will deepen international
understanding that it is important for the whole world to work on addressing climate change throughinnovation and promote collaboration. (The 5th Annual Meeting will be held on October 10 and 11,
2018)
Promote efforts in industry
In order to achieve reduction targets in the Plan for Global Warming Countermeasures, the industry
sector will continue to make efforts and take voluntary actions in this area.
The industrial sector is expected to contribute to worldwide GHG emissions reduction by supplying
low-carbon products and services onto the global market and visualizing its contributions.
It is expected that half of the capacity of renewables will be installed in China, India, Brazil, Indonesia
and Russia by 2030, which shows that the green market is expanding even in developing countries. Japan
will accelerate greening of the market and economic growth especially in Asia through technologies andservices from the industry sector.
2. Promotion of international cooperation with continuous Co-innovation
For immediate international cooperation, following the ACE 2.0, Japan will continuously support
developing countries by annually providing 1.3 trillion yen through public and private finance. Based on16the concept of Co-innovation, Japan will steadily implement concrete support including "Japan's
Assistance Initiative to Address Climate Change 2017"8 announced in October 2017.
In order to realize Co-innovation, actions by Non-State actors in Japan and partner countries are essential.
The Japanese government promotes collaboration with various actors and will aim at major efforts thatare radically different from current actions, thereby achieving drastic emissions reduction.
Japan is working on four themes to deliver Co-innovation. (Figure 2)

Strengthening partnerships withrelated entities and promotion ofcollaboration
Institutional development andstrengthening ownership in eachcountry

Creation and scale-up of"successful model"

Mobilization of private finance byeffectively utilizing public funds
Figure 2： Four themes to realize Co-innovation
Japan will identify the challenges and needs of each partner country by strengthening partnerships withdiverse entities and having a continuous dialogue with the national and local governments, industrialorganizations, companies, experts, NGOs, research organizations, and others in the partner country. In
addition, the visualization of possible measures and needs of other countries will help establish afoundation for creating decarbonized markets as it improves transparency regarding the status of GHG
emissions and reduction efforts. At the same time, we will provide support for developing plans on
mitigation and the development of new domestic structure and systems. Japan will promote awarenessto include the aspects of climate change in public funds, which are effectively used to promote private
sector investment, and an enabling environment will be created for Co-innovation by accumulating thesesuccessful models and scaling them up.
Further developing and expanding of the "successful model", Japan will also utilize public finance fromJICA and JBIC, as well as climate-related financial assistance schemes such as GCF and ADB. Our priorities
are as follows:(i) Scaling up from pilot projects to larger projects
8

https://www.env.go.jp/press/files/en/738.pdf
17

(ii) Horizontal expansion of effective projects(iii) Built-in low carbon/ decarbonization technology for large-scale infrastructure projects.
Successful models for Co-innovation
Transportation sector
Japanese companies succeeded in developing a traffic monitoring system utilizing AI image recognition
technology through joint demonstration experiments with research institutions in developing countries.
This system makes it possible to capture the traffic situation over a wider area, optimally control traffic
light conditions according to traffic conditions, reduce traffic congestion and facilitate traffic, thus
leading to a reduction in CO2 emissions. This system will be introduced in Japan, China and some
European countries.
Energy sector
Companies in Japan and Vietnam used the JCM facility subsidiary business to reduce the initial cost, andintroduced the Alfa MOS High Efficiency Transformer. This case has successfully demonstrated thepositive effect of reducing GHG emissions. This technology has been deployed in other regions in
Vietnam as well as in other countries. Furthermore, the Vietnamese electric distribution company willdevelop procurement standards etc. for introducing this technology.
On a remote island in Indonesia, Japan is carrying out a project to establish a method of operation &maintenance (O & M) for a micro grid. The cost was successfully reduced by modifying the storage
battery with EMS to ensure that recharge generation, storage technology and long-cycle technology were
adjusted to fit the local environment and specifications in cooperation with the local government
agencies. This will greatly reduce CO2 emissions by reducing diesel power generation.
Contribution to scientific knowledge
In addition, Japan will contribute to the enhancement of scientific knowledge through financial support
to the IPCC Trust Fund and the Task Force on National Greenhouse Gas Inventories (TFI). Scientificknowledge is considered to be indispensable for the formulation and evaluation of long-term goals andthe implementation of climate change measures. Japan also supports the development ofmethodologies to better capture the emissions by each country. Providing calculation formulas andvarious coefficients necessary for calculation will help make the calculation consistent, and allow
comparability of emissions numbers.
Contribution to the IPCC so far: 4.3 million US dollars8（3.5％ of total）

Accumulation of the contribution to the TFI: 33 million US dollars

8 Exchange rate: 1 Swiss franc＝1 US dollars

18