Japan is making progress on climate goals. On April 25, 2025, government data revealed that greenhouse gas emissions fell 4% in FY23/24, hitting a record low. This drop comes from lower energy use, more renewables, and nuclear power restarts. Here’s what the numbers show and what’s driving the change.
A Record Low
Japan’s emissions shrank by 4% in the fiscal year ending March 2024. It’s the lowest level ever recorded. The decline was led by reduced energy consumption, a rise in renewable energy, and the restart of nuclear power plants. “Japan’s greenhouse gas emissions fell by 4% to a record low in the fiscal year ended March 2024,” a Reuters report confirmed. This puts Japan, the world’s fifth-biggest CO2 emitter, on a better path.
Why the Drop?
Several factors played a role. Thermal power’s share of electricity generation fell to 68.6%, down 4 percentage points from the previous year. Coal made up 28.3%, natural gas 32.9%, and oil 7.4%. Renewables and nuclear filled the gap. Forests and other carbon sinks absorbed 53.7 million tons of greenhouse gases, though that was down 0.2% from the prior year. The 2023/24 emissions mark a 23.3% reduction from 2013 levels.
Key Highlights
- Emissions Cut: 4% drop in FY23/24, a record low.
- Thermal Power: Down to 68.6%, with coal at 28.3%, gas at 32.9%, oil at 7.4%.
- Progress: 23.3% reduction from 2013 levels.
- Carbon Sinks: Forests absorbed 53.7 million tons, down 0.2%.
Japan’s Climate Goals
Japan aims to cut emissions by 46% from 2013 levels by 2030. The FY23/24 numbers show it’s halfway there. The country also targets carbon neutrality by 2050. A 2021 IEA report noted Japan’s high carbon intensity among IEA members, urging faster action.
Challenges Ahead
The road isn’t easy. Thermal power still dominates at 68.6%, and coal remains a big chunk. Japan’s energy efficiency is top-notch, but scaling renewables and nuclear isn’t simple. Land, costs, and public views on nuclear power pose hurdles. Plus, the carbon intensity of Japan’s energy mix needs to drop further to meet 2050 targets, as the IEA highlighted.
The Bigger Picture
Japan’s progress reflects a global push for cleaner energy. The country is ending new unabated coal plants, per a 2023 JapanGov statement, while securing energy supply. It’s also pledged $70 billion in climate finance by 2030. Policies target 36-38% renewable energy and 20-22% nuclear by 2030, up from 26% and 5% in 2022, according to the U.S. EIA. Japan’s efforts could inspire other nations balancing growth and emissions cuts.
Japan’s 4% emissions drop is a win. With renewables and nuclear on the rise, the country is moving toward its 46% reduction goal by 2030. But the journey to carbon neutrality by 2050 is long, and every step counts.
