Cease the pretense: Urging Japan’s climate commitment at COP28

At the COP28 international climate conference, running from 30 November to 12 December, the Japanese youth climate movement, Fridays For Future Japan (FFF Japan), has issued a stern call to the Japanese government. The group criticizes global and national efforts as inadequate in genuinely addressing the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

FFF Japan held a press conference on 5 December to announce its statement addressed to the Japanese government, titled “Stop Pretending on the 1.5-Degree Target.” This press conference was unique as it was held in an open, public space, allowing not only journalists but also bystanders and passersby to participate in the questioning. Audience members asked various questions, including their thoughts on the amount of funds to tackle loss and damage announced by the Japanese government and whether they believe the development of hydrogen energy is necessary.

The youth-led organization has outlined seven specific demands, targeting both Japan and the global community:

• Establish a clear timeline for the complete phase-out of all fossil fuels, including coal, oil, and gas, in Japan and globally.
• Accelerate the transition to a 100% renewable energy society, demanding a threefold increase in global renewable energy capacity by 2030, compared to 2022 levels, while ensuring a fair and safe transition.
• Strengthen Japan’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to align with the 1.5-degree target, suggesting a reduction of at least 62% by 2030, compared to 2013 levels.
• Enhance support for climate action in developing countries, acknowledging the resource and technology gap that hinders these nations’ efforts.
• Operate the Loss and Damage Fund, established at COP27, based on principles of climate justice, addressing the disproportionate impacts of climate change on vulnerable countries.
• Integrate health considerations into climate policies, in light of the inaugural “Health Day” at COP28, focusing on the mental and physical health impacts of climate change.
• Withdraw from global fossil fuel projects that exacerbate climate change and cause environmental and human rights violations.

Miyu Tahara from FFF Tokyo emphasized the urgency of genuine action over mere appearances. “Japan’s current strategy, especially its focus on hydrogen and ammonia in power generation, is merely an extension of fossil fuel use, camouflaged as progress. We urgently need a fundamental reassessment of our approach to the climate crisis,” Tahara stated.