So what is the key to a greener future? According to the Japanese “Green Deal” it is solar energy and electric cars, as these are the two key areas outlined by the Japanese government as it bids to produce a low carbon emission society.
Japan’s Prime Minister Taro Aso said Nippon must do everything it can to transform itself into the world leader for areas such as electric vehicles and solar energy. He believes that private places such as homes and offices should be built to take advantage of solar power while public facilities including schools and hospitals should also follow the same route.
Indeed the Japanese industry minister expects the nation’s solar power sector to generate upwards of $105billion in economic benefits in the year 2020 which would represent a huge leap from the current $1billion. Around 100,000 jobs will be created in the solar power industry by the same year – up from the current level of 12,000.
Electric cars have also been outlined for a stronger role. This will please Japanese manufacturers such as Nissan that have already outlined plans to be among the world leaders in green car technology.
Next month, an economic advisory council will present a national growth strategy for Japan’s future through to 2020 with green technology seen as the main pillar.
