Publication

This brief examines the domestic political process which is shaping Japan's climate policy focusing on greenhouse gas reduction targets. The author observes that Japanese emissions have increased by 9 percent instead of decreasing by 6 percent relative to 1990 as pledged under the Kyoto Protocol. However, disputes between ministries about who has the authority over climate policy and the lack of a charismatic leader hinders the implementation of a progressive climate agenda in Japan. The author also discusses popular opinion and the intense political struggle taking place. He concludes that apart from an 8 percent cut in emissions Japan proposed as mid-term target, not much is likely to be extracted from the government in Tokyo at the Copenhagen negotiations.