Japan publishes 2024 white papers on environment, circular economy, and biodiversity

The Japanese Ministry of the Environment has published its 2024 Environmental White Paper, Circular Economy White Paper, and Biodiversity White Paper following their approval by the Cabinet last Friday. These comprehensive documents outline Japan’s ambitious plans to enhance natural capital and environmental value, fostering new growth that improves the well-being and quality of life for its citizens.

The central theme of this year’s white papers is the integration of environmental, economic, and social policies to address three pressing global crises: climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. The Sixth Basic Environmental Plan, approved by the Cabinet in May, serves as the foundation for these documents. This plan aims to transform Japan’s economic and social systems to safeguard environmental capacity and improve environmental quality, creating a sustainable, circular symbiotic society.

Chapter 1 of the white papers presents a detailed overview of the Sixth Basic Environmental Plan, highlighting the urgent need to tackle the interconnected challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. It underscores the importance of a comprehensive vision that integrates environmental conservation with economic and social advancements, setting a strategic direction for future policies.

Chapter 2 delves into the latest trends and policy measures addressing the three global crises. It emphasizes the need for coordinated efforts to recognize the interdependencies among these issues and to integrate policies for nature restoration, carbon neutrality, and a circular economy. This holistic approach aims to create synergies that can drive meaningful progress.

The white papers also highlight the importance of enriching local communities and improving residents’ quality of life through environmental initiatives. Chapter 3 introduces the concept of the “Regional Circular and Ecological Sphere,” which promotes sustainable regional development. This section also discusses lifestyle shifts that align with environmental goals, emphasizing that community well-being and environmental health are mutually reinforcing.

Chapter 4 reviews the progress of environmental restoration in areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake and the nuclear disaster. It outlines forward-looking initiatives aimed at the next stage of recovery, emphasizing resilience and sustainability in rebuilding efforts.

The Ministry of the Environment has combined the three annual reports into a single document to provide a clear and comprehensive overview of Japan’s environmental policies and initiatives. This approach is designed to make the complex landscape of environmental issues more accessible to policymakers and the public alike.

In line with Japan’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, the CO2 emissions generated during the printing process of the white papers have been offset by purchasing credits from areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake. This initiative is part of the Ministry’s “Offset Credit (J-VER) Scheme.”

The white papers are available for download in PDF format from the Ministry of the Environment’s website. HTML versions will be accessible from early July. Printed copies can be purchased at government publication centers and selected bookstores for 2,728 yen per copy, with sales starting in late June. E-book versions will be available for free on Kindle and Rakuten Kobo for one year, beginning in late July.

To further engage with the public and promote understanding of the white papers, the Ministry of the Environment plans to host “White Paper Reading Sessions.” Additionally, an English version of the white papers will be published on the Ministry’s website by this fall, ensuring broader accessibility.