Researchers at Kyushu University have conducted a thorough analysis revealing that Japan’s current plan to halt the sale of gas vehicles by 2035 and transition solely to hybrids and electric vehicles (EVs) may not be sufficient to combat the climate crisis. Despite this, the study proposes several solutions to ensure the nation reaches its decarbonization targets.
The analysis emphasizes the importance of simultaneously increasing the production of clean energy, decarbonizing the manufacturing process, and extending vehicle lifetimes alongside the transition to EVs and hybrids. Professor Shigemi Kagawa, from Kyushu University’s Faculty of Economics, underscores the significance of considering a car’s entire lifecycle emissions, urging policymakers to address various policy points to effectively reduce CO2 emissions.
Key areas for policy intervention include decarbonizing the supply chain, improving the country’s energy mix by transitioning to more renewable sources, and extending vehicle lifetimes. The study highlights that merely increasing EV production without decarbonizing the supply chain could lead to stagnant emissions reduction.
Japan’s energy mix heavily reliant on fossil fuels underscores the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources. The study suggests aligning with the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) policy mix, aiming for 88% renewables by 2050 to achieve carbon neutrality effectively.
Extending vehicle lifetimes, regardless of whether they are EVs or gas vehicles, can significantly reduce CO2 emissions. The research suggests that extending the average lifespan of cars by even one year could lead to substantial emissions reductions.
The study concludes by urging Japan to implement comprehensive policies to combat the climate crisis effectively. This includes providing attractive subsidies for initiatives such as driving cars less, extending vehicle lifetimes, and encouraging the purchase of used vehicles. Ultimately, the researchers emphasize that effective policies, coupled with individual efforts, are crucial in addressing the complex challenge of climate change and securing a sustainable future.
