Rakuten CO2 zero fans: Revisiting Japan’s J-Credit scheme

The use of carbon offset through carbon zero products and services within Japan are steadily increasing. Examples include the Japanese government’s J-Credit Scheme and Rakuten products such as the “CO2 zero” fan. How have these strategies shaped the fight against climate change?

As previously mentioned, one policy that has been enacted to fight climate change is the J-Credit Scheme. This policy certifies and credits the amount of CO2 emissions by companies through efforts that introduce products and services that aid in saving energy. In addition, this scheme is also being used to help manage forests and carbon offsetting. Carbon offset is a mechanism that reduces carbon dioxide emissions in order to compensate for emissions created elsewhere. Companies buy credits in exchange for funds that go toward CO2 reduction activities.

Rakuten is one such company in Japan. They have taken it upon themselves to help tackle climate change by providing carbon free products. On the 16th of May, Rakuten sold their CO2 zero fans at a pro baseball match hosted by the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles. Each fan purchase is able to curb CO2 emissions by six kilograms a day per person. This is a perfect example of carbon offsetting. The credits Rakuten purchased for these fans go toward improving forest conditions in Japan’s Iwate prefecture.

In FY2018, the use of Japanese government’s J-Credit Scheme nearly doubled compared to the previous year. Companies who are procuring credits for overseas projects are also gaining traction. By purchasing “CO2 Zero” office chairs through Itoki, a company which provides office design and services, customers are able to contribute to the Katingan Peatland Reservation and Conservation Project in Indonesia, which will support the life of the local people.

Carbon offset is expected to dramatically increase the number of companies that use sustainable development goals. Climate change is an undeniable threat that companies, governments, and individuals can tackle together. Japan’s J-Scheme is making its best efforts to encourage businesses to do their part in order to curb carbon dioxide emissions.