Hakkō ichiu (All the World Under One Roof)
In order to move forward, Japan has the intentions to commit to:
Addressing the "Wicked Problem" of PM2.5: Striving to recognize PM2.5 levels as a complex issue requiring attention from various stakeholders like government agencies (Botta & Yamasaki, 2020), local/international organizations (Xie & Liao, 2022), communities/citizens (Riley et al., 2021), industries (Fujitani et al., 2021), etc.
Improving SDG Narrative: Focusing on better communication and demonstration of their efforts and progress towards achieving the SDGs (How Science and Industry Are Driving Japan's Sustainable Development, n.d.).
Continued Investment in Renewable Energy: Maintaining commitment to renewable energy sources, particularly hydrogen power, to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 (How Science and Industry Are Driving Japan's Sustainable Development, n.d.).
Raising Awareness and Reducing Ignorance: Emphasizing public awareness campaigns to improve environmental governance and ensure the true meaning of Japan's flag (purity, integrity, sincerity, brightness, warmth) isn't compromised by environmental issues (Air Pollution Impacts an Aging Society, n.d.).
Maintaining Transparency and Accountability: Continuing detailed reporting and public disclosure of environmental information to uphold integrity. The Ministry of the Environment (MOE) publishes annual reports on air quality, including data on PM2.5 concentrations, which are accessible to the public (Ministry of the Environment, Government of Japan, n.d.).
Adapting and Adjusting Plans: Remaining flexible and responsive in environmental management plans to address changing air pollution levels and related challenges (Japan | Climate & Clean Air Coalition, n.d.).
Global Leadership: Continuing to act as a global leader in addressing air pollution and investing in a cleaner future, partnering with countries like China and South Korea, and embodying the "Hakkō ichiu" motto (all the world under one roof) (Ministry of the Environment, Government of Japan, n.d.).
The following solution is recommended to address complex PM2.5 pollution in Japan, while acknowledging its practical limitations and potential challenges:
Clean Transport and Household Emissions Reduction Policy (CTHERP)
Addition of CTHERP to existing air-quality standard strategies aims to target two major sources, vehicle emissions and household heating and cooking sources.
Introduce Low-Emission Zone (LEZ) system in pollution hotspot, encouraging electron and hydrogen-powered vehicles and cleaner household technologies.
Practical Implementation:
Traffic Emission Reduction Strategies:
Low-Emission Zones (LEZs): Enforce strict emission-based restrictions in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka.
Congestion Charges: Impose penalties on vehicles exceeding PM2.5 standards.
Incentives for Clean Transport: Subsidize electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles, improve e-bike and cycling infrastructure.
Public Transit Expansion: Increase electric bus and tram networks in LEZs.
Corporate Responsibility: Offer tax benefits for companies providing public transit passes; mandate EV/hydrogen vehicles/trucks transitions by 2035.
Green Freight Corridors: Develop charging and hydrogen refueling networks for logistics.
Household Emission Reduction Strategies:
Ban on Polluting Systems: Prohibit new installations of coal- and kerosene-based heating and cooking appliances.
Mandatory Clean Energy Adoption: Require heat pumps, induction stoves, and solar water heating in new buildings.
Retrofitting Support: Provide subsidies and low-interest loans for cleaner technology upgrades in older homes.
Green Home Tax Credit: Reward energy-efficient renovations.
Smog-Reducing Research: Increase funding for indoor air purifier advancements.
Ventilation Standards: Mandate proper air circulation to minimize indoor pollution.
Infrastructure Readiness: Expanding electric vehicle charging and hydrogen refueling stations might not be cost and time effective.
Public Acceptance: There might be resistance from individuals and businesses due to reluctance to change due to perceived costs and convenience factors.
Policy Enforcement: Ensuring strict adherence to LEZ rules and congestion charges may require enhanced monitoring and law enforcement which might be inefficient.
Supply Chain Constraints: The demand for electric vehicles, batteries, and clean home technologies may exceed supply, delaying transitions.
Equity Considerations: Low-income households and small businesses may struggle with upfront costs, requiring well-designed financial aid programs.
Cross-Border Pollution: While domestic sources are targeted, transboundary air pollution from neighboring countries still remains an external challenge which is beyond Japan’s control.