Japan's Experience With Short-Lived Climate Pollutants-The Case Of Black Carbon

This report discusses major policy measures implemented by the Japanese government to control BC emissions from both stationary and mobile sources, including: (1) the regulation of soot and dust from stationary facilities; (2) the stepwise development of vehicle emissions standards and fuel quality standards to address diesel emissions; and (3) special vehicle emissions control measures introduced in highly populated metropolitan areas.

The report also presents two examples of metropolitan-level undertakings, one involving industrial emissions and the other vehicle emissions. The case of Kawasaki is considered for its pioneering emissions reduction measures for industrial pollution. Tokyo’s innovative regulation of diesel vehicles is also discussed. In both cases, ambient SPM concentrations have decreased significantly, suggesting the effectiveness of the efforts.

The report also outlines technologies used to control soot emissions from industrial sources and diesel emissions, both of which have been improving in order to keep up with strengthening national and local standards.

Finally, the report touches on international initiatives relating to the regulation and reduction of SLCPs, with a focus on Japan’s involvement.