Overview

• Japan's government approved updated climate and energy policies targeting a 60% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by fiscal year 2035 and 73% by fiscal year 2040, compared to 2013 levels.
• The revised energy plan seeks to have renewable energy sources account for 40-50% of electricity generation and nuclear power for 20% by 2040.
• Despite public support for more ambitious targets, the finalized plan maintains a 46% emissions reduction goal for 2030, drawing criticism from climate advocates.
• The strategy includes building next-generation nuclear reactors and developing industrial clusters in areas rich in renewable and low-carbon energy sources.
• Japan's heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels, which currently meet 70% of its energy needs, remains a significant challenge to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.