Pollution's Impact On Japan: A Comprehensive Overview

Japan's history of pollution dates back to the Meiji Period, with the mineral pollution case of the Ashio Copper Mine being the first known occurrence. Since then, rapid industrialisation and economic growth have led to increased pollution, with fossil fuel combustion being the leading driver of harmful air pollution. In 2019, more than 42,000 deaths were linked to air pollution in the country, causing a serious public health crisis. Japan's economy relies heavily on fossil fuels, which generate almost 85% of its energy consumption. As a result, the combustion of coal, oil, and gas in power plants, industrial facilities, and vehicles is the primary source of environmental pollution.

The Japanese government has implemented various measures to address pollution, including the Water Pollution Control Law enacted in 1970 and the Basic Law for Environmental Pollution Control. However, Japan has been criticised for being too slow in abandoning fossil fuels and not effectively promoting waste reduction and recycling initiatives. Transitioning from fossil fuels to clean energy sources is crucial for improving air quality and mitigating the health risks associated with pollution.

Fossil fuel combustion and air pollution

Fossil fuel combustion is a major cause of air pollution in Japan. In 2023, fossil fuel combustion and industrial processes in the country produced 944 million metric tons of carbon dioxide (MtCO₂). This figure has decreased since 2013, when emissions peaked at 1.33 GtCO₂.

The burning of fossil fuels like coal and diesel has been linked to about one in five deaths worldwide, according to a study by Harvard University, the University of Birmingham, the University of Leicester, and University College London. The study, "Global Mortality From Outdoor Fine Particle Pollution Generated by Fossil Fuel Combustion," found that over 8 million people died in 2018 from fossil fuel pollution, with the number of premature deaths attributed to fossil fuel pollution in the United States alone reaching 350,000.

In Japan, the energy conversion sector is the main polluting sector, as natural gas and coal remain the largest sources for electricity generation. Fossil fuel combustion produces air pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which contribute to the formation of harmful ozone (O3). While Japan has seen a decrease in these pollutants due to source regulations, cross-border air pollution from rapidly industrialising Asian countries remains a significant issue.

To address air pollution from fossil fuel combustion, the Japanese government has introduced various regulations and promoted the use of renewable energy sources. The Air Pollution Control Law mandates dust collectors and smoke exhausts in factories and thermal power plants to reduce emissions of particulate matter, sulphur oxides, and nitrogen oxides. Additionally, the government has tightened automobile emission regulations and encouraged the use of low-emission vehicles.

While these measures have led to improvements in air quality, Japan has faced criticism for being too slow in abandoning fossil fuels. The country's efforts to reduce pollution and transition to renewable energy sources are crucial not only for environmental reasons but also for the health and well-being of its citizens.

The health impact of air pollution

Air pollution in Japan has a significant impact on the health of its citizens, causing tens of thousands of deaths each year. In 2019, more than 42,000 deaths were linked to air pollution, with the country experiencing a high death rate due to poor air quality. The primary driver of this pollution is the combustion of fossil fuels, which generate almost 85% of Japan's energy consumption. The burning of coal, oil, and gas releases vast amounts of greenhouse gases and deadly pollutants, contributing to global warming and climate change.

The health impacts of air pollution are far-reaching and affect both physical and mental well-being. Fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, is the most common and deadly pollutant in Japan. Its tiny size, measuring only 2.5 micrometres or less in diameter, allows it to penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, affecting all major organs. Exposure to PM2.5 has been linked to various respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses, including stroke, lung cancer, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is estimated that illness and premature death caused by PM2.5 alone cost the global economy USD 8 trillion annually.

In addition to respiratory and cardiovascular issues, air pollution has been associated with mental health problems. Research has found that exposure to polluted air can lead to depression, anxiety, psychosis, and neurocognitive disorders such as dementia. This highlights the serious public health crisis caused by Japan's poor air quality, which has prompted legal action and concerns from residents, particularly in highly populated cities like Tokyo.

Other short-term symptoms resulting from air pollution exposure include itchy eyes, nose and throat irritation, wheezing, coughing, chest pain, headaches, nausea, and upper respiratory infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia. In some cases, skin rashes may also occur, depending on the specific pollutants and individual susceptibility. Additionally, air pollution exacerbates existing respiratory conditions such as asthma and emphysema.

Long-term effects of prolonged exposure to air pollution can be even more severe, including an increased risk of lung cancer and cardiovascular disease, and the development of chronic respiratory illnesses and allergies. Air pollution has also been linked to heart attacks and strokes, posing a serious threat to overall health and well-being. Vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, children, and the elderly are at an even higher risk of adverse health effects from air pollution.

To address the health impacts of air pollution, Japan has implemented various measures, including tightening automobile emission regulations and promoting the use of low-emission vehicles. However, the country still faces challenges in transitioning from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources, and its climate ambitions have been criticized as inadequate. Nevertheless, a rapid and just transition to renewable energy offers significant health and economic benefits, presenting a crucial opportunity to improve public health and mitigate climate change simultaneously.

Water pollution

Japan has a history of water pollution, with the Ashio Copper Mine case being known as the first pollution case in the country during the Meiji Period. The rapid industrialisation and heavy manufacturing that followed World War II led to a massive increase in pollutants, particularly in waterfront areas. This resulted in severe health issues, including Minamata disease and Yokkaichi asthma.

To address water pollution, the Japanese government enacted the Water Pollution Control Law in 1970, prohibiting the discharge of wastewater that does not meet effluent water quality standards. Despite these efforts, Japan still faces coastal water pollution caused by petroleum hydrocarbons, pesticides, dioxins, dibenzofurans, and chemicals from the integrated circuit industry. Semi-enclosed estuaries remain severely polluted, and the removal of contaminated sediments from affected areas has been an ongoing challenge.

The Japanese government has recognised the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling waste to mitigate water pollution. However, Japan's waste recycling rate has remained low, around 20% over the past decade, indicating that more effective measures and public awareness are needed to address this issue.

Government plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions

Japan has been taking steps to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, with a particular focus on increasing its use of nuclear and renewable energy sources. In 2024, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced that Japan aimed to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 46% by 2030 and set a "lofty goal" of cutting emissions by 50%. This is in line with the country's commitment under the United Nations Climate Change Convention to reduce emissions by 26% from 2013 levels by 2030. Japan has already made significant progress, with emissions falling to their lowest level since 2013. This has been driven by a steady expansion of renewable energy sources and energy-saving technological innovations.

Japan's approach to reducing emissions is guided by three key principles:

• Promote innovation and technology as agents of change in tackling global warming.
• Promote green finance to support the development of innovation and new technologies.
• Support greater international cooperation for business-led adoption of innovative green technologies.

To achieve its goals, Japan plans to implement a growth-oriented carbon pricing concept based on the GX Promotion Act. This includes issuing the world's first national transition bond with international certification. Japan also intends to maximize the deployment of clean energy by making renewable energy its main power source and utilizing nuclear power. The country has a proven track record in solar energy, being the world's third-largest provider.

However, Japan has faced criticism for its continued reliance on fossil fuels and the slow pace of abandoning them. There are concerns that the government's carbon pricing and emissions trading schemes may not be effective in reducing emissions. Additionally, Japan has unveiled plans to build new-generation nuclear reactors, but economic and regulatory hurdles may delay their operation until 2035-2040.

To further reduce emissions, Japan could:

• Commit to a full coal phase-out by 2030.
• Prioritize the scale-up of renewable energy capacity and strengthen related targets.
• Strengthen its EV target to phase out all fossil-fuel passenger cars from new sales by 2035.
• Stop public financing of fossil fuel projects overseas.
• Strengthen its 2030 target ambition level in line with the Paris Agreement.

The economic and health benefits of transitioning from fossil fuels

Japan's greenhouse gas emissions have decreased over the past decade, but air pollution still causes over 44,000 deaths annually. Fossil fuel combustion is a major cause of air pollution, and natural gas and coal remain the largest sources of electricity generation in the country. The transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources and electric vehicles can bring significant economic and health benefits to Japan.

Economic Benefits

The transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources can drive economic growth and create jobs. While the initial investment in renewable technologies may be high, the long-term gains outweigh the costs. Government incentives and international cooperation are crucial to accelerating this transition. The development and adoption of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, can create more jobs than the oil and gas industry, fostering economic growth. Additionally, Japan's transition to electric vehicles is gaining traction, with an increasing number of passenger cars using eco-energy like hydrogen and electricity. This shift can reduce the country's dependence on fossil fuels and promote a more sustainable and environmentally friendly image.

Health Benefits

Transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy systems and electric vehicles can significantly improve health outcomes and reduce air pollution. Burning fossil fuels releases harmful pollutants and toxic emissions that contribute to climate change and respiratory issues. By transitioning to renewable energy sources, Japan can reduce air pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), improving air quality and reducing the health risks associated with air pollution, such as respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and certain types of cancer.

In summary, the economic and health benefits of transitioning from fossil fuels are significant. The move towards renewable energy sources and electric vehicles can drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve health outcomes by reducing air pollution and mitigating the impacts of climate change. Japan has already made progress in this direction, and continued efforts will further enhance these benefits for its citizens and the environment.

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