Japan Receives 'Fossil' Award Once More for Inadequate Climate Efforts

Japan faced criticism from an international environmental organization which awarded it the 'fossil' award for what was perceived as insufficient action towards combatting climate change. Marking a repeated occurrence, Japan's reliance on coal-fired power has been frowned upon, especially considering its promises to help in global decarbonization efforts.

Climate Action Network's 'Fossil' Award

The 'fossil' award, which symbolizes lagging progress in the fight against climate change, was handed to Japan at the U.N. climate change conferences by the Climate Action Network. Historically, Japan also received this unfavorable distinction in 2019, 2021, and 2022, showing a concerning pattern in its climate policies. The United States and New Zealand were also recipients of this mock accolade at the ongoing COP28 in Dubai.

Japan's Efforts and International Response

As part of its climate strategy, the Japanese government promotes new technologies aimed at lowering carbon dioxide emissions from thermal power by incorporating ammonia into the fuel mix. During COP28, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida highlighted Japan's collaboration with Southeast Asian nations to shift to cleaner energy sources.

However, critics argue that this approach essentially amounts to greenwashing, as it might allow thermal power plants to continue operating well into the future. The nongovernmental organization voiced concerns that Japan's strategy could delay the necessary swift transition from fossil fuels to renewables, thus putting global renewable energy targets at risk.

Japan's Energy Dependency

Japan's reliance on fossil fuel imports like coal and crude oil intensified following the Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011. With most nuclear power plants offline, the country has been grappling with finding sustainable energy solutions.

An ironic award ceremony at COP28 brought additional attention to this matter, as Japan, once again, walked away with the 'fossil' award. Throughout the conference, this 'award' is presented multiple times to highlight countries' climate change shortcomings.

Japan, climate, award