Japanese Local Governments' Roadmap to Net-Zero and Decarbonization: Linking Policy with Implementation

ICLEI KCC and the ICLEI Japan Office co-hosted a half-day seminar titled "Japanese Cities' Path to Net-Zero and Decarbonization Goals" at the Kaohsiung Net Zero Institute on May 9th. Three speakers, either in person or online, discussed Japanese cities' efforts in accelerating energy transition, fostering energy innovation, and leading carbon reduction through holistic urban planning.

Amidst global and local challenges, Togo Uchida, Director of ICLEI Japan, emphasized the significance of collaboration across different levels. He stressed that the central government should assist local authorities by facilitating communication and implementing supportive regulations. At the same time, it is also important for local governments to efficiently utilize resources in their transition towards achieving net-zero goals.

The Japanese transition strategy adopts a "bottom-up" approach, with local governments or cities driving societal and economic change. Dr. Yi-Chun Chen, Senior Researcher at the Institute of Energy Economics, Japan (IEEJ), emphasized that carbon neutrality presents both challenges and opportunities. Local governments not only align with central government carbon reduction plans and foster the green industry but also serve as vital intermediaries between local businesses and citizens.

Li-Ting Huang, Project Manager at the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), highlighted Japan's "Decarbonization Leading Area” initiative initiated by the Ministry of the Environment (MOE). Ms. Huang showcased two notable cases: the "Yokohama Minato Mirai 21" project, which entails the installation of renewable energy infrastructure on rooftops and walls, substitution of energy-efficient appliances, and enhancement of renewable energy supply through inter-authority collaboration; and Kamishihoro Town, which promotes the uptake of solar energy systems in residential and commercial structures via a "zero-interest loan program" (無息貸款系統).

In addition to Japan's developmental insights, ICLEI member cities in Taiwan are actively engaged in the transition to net-zero. Huang Shih-Hung, Deputy Director of the Kaohsiung City Government Environmental Protection Bureau, shared Kaohsiung's net-zero strategy, employing a "top industry leads the rest" approach, fostering collaborative learning among peers to attain net-zero objectives, particularly in the industrial sector.

Towards the end of the session, Yang Yi-Sheng, Director of ICLEI KCC, unveiled a plan in progress about a six-day “International Off-site Training on Japan Net Zero City,” jointly organized with the ICLEI Japan Office. This training program will include visits to Japanese cities, technical exchanges, advanced training sessions, and insights into a net-zero lifestyle.

For interested participants in the upcoming“International Off-site Training on Japan Net Zero City,” please click here to download the slides and contact ICLEI KCC via iclei-kaohsiung@iclei.org.