Fridays for Future Japan calls for responsible climate change and energy policies

Fridays for Future Japan released a statement last Friday, calling for the Japan government to take charge of developing responsible policies. Beyond the reminder that Japan has to act now to meet the climate crisis full on, FFF Japan also urges involving diversity in policy making.

FFF Japan’s statement includes three key points: the immediate implementation of measures to meet the 1.5 degree target, a fair policy making process, and respecting opinions of youth.

Immediate implementation of measures to meet the 1.5 degree target

In order for Japan fulfill its commitment to the Paris Agreement, Japan needs to raise its goal for reducing greenhouse gases. FFF Japan calls for the government to do so immediately, rather than waiting for the next world conference (COP26) to discuss it. This requires Japan to begin on policy discussion as soon as possible. It is especially urgent if Japan plans to shift towards 100% renewable energy.

Fair policy making process

While FFF Japan calls for each ministry to prioritize climate as the most important issue, it also requests the government to recognize the need to move away from conventional structure to encourage cross-ministerial discussions.

Fairness is also key, says FFF Japan. There is a dire lack of gender and age balance in key positions. Policies should be driven not only through data and expert opinions, but also reflect the needs of all citizens. FFF Japan requests transparency, in both the selection of committee members for energy policy and the public broadcast of council meetings.

Respecting opinions of youth

The youths are one of the biggest stakeholders in the future of the world, yet have no right to vote. FFF Japan demands for a review of the current system to include the views of the Japanese youths. This is especially important when the current policies can no longer ensure the safety of the following generations.

The statement addresses top decision makers, including Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe, Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Hiroshi Kajiyama, Minister of the Environment Shinjiro Koizumi, and Members of the Future Investment Council and the Central Environment Council.