Results of a Joint Research Project with the University of Tokyo on Safeguarding the Global Commons -New Report Outlines Pathways and Strategies to Achieve Net Zero for the Japanese Chemical Industry-
October 7, 2024
Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, a member of the Mitsubishi Chemical Group (hereinafter referred to as “the MCG Group”), endorsed the mission of the Center for Global Commons, established by the University of Tokyo (President: Teruo Fujii) in August 2020, and has been conducting joint research since April 1, 2021.*1, *2 In this joint research, they are studying the role of the chemical industry in safeguarding the global commons (i.e., global environmental systems that form a shared basis for the sustainable development of human kind). The MCG Group is pleased to announce the launch of a research report titled “Planet Positive Chemicals in Japan” (hereinafter referred to as “this report”) by the University of Tokyo on October 7, 2024.
- The report can be downloaded from
【Introduction】
In recent years, there has been growing urgency to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions to fight against the climate change. While the products produced by the chemical industry support many aspects of our lives, however, the chemical industry is known as a hard-to-abate industry, because most of its raw materials and products contain carbon, and because of its diverse products. Given this context, this joint research aims to identify the roles the chemical industry should play, the issues it needs to solve, the businesses it should be engaged in, and the paths it needs to take to transform itself, for the benefit of other industries and consumers and for the pursuit of a sustainable society.
【Highlight of the report】
As a specific topic of this joint research, the Center for Global Commons at the University of Tokyo and the MCG Group have been conducting research on the pathways to net zero greenhouse gas emissions for the chemical industry. In September 2022, a report showing pathways to net zero for the global chemical industry was launched.*3 Today, the University of Tokyo has released a report that focuses on the Japanese chemical industry as a follow-up to the earlier global report. Specifically, it provides pathways quantitively for the Japanese chemical industry to achieve scope 1, 2, and 3 net zero, based on a peer-reviewed academic paper that was published earlier as a result of this research.*4 In addition to the pathways, strategies and actions to achieve net zero have been presented considering Japan's strengths and weaknesses, so that progress can be made amid various uncertainties, such as future demand for net zero chemicals and relevant technologies for their production. While this report focuses on Japan, the Center for Global Commons considers these pathways and strategies could be applicable to other countries and regions under similar constraints, such as limited access to renewable resources.
【The MCG Group’s view】
The MCG Group appreciate the breadth and depth of this unprecedented report, which analyzes pathways and strategies for the Japanese chemical industry to achieve net zero emissions, not only for scope 1 and 2, but also scope 3 upstream and downstream, while taking into account the unique circumstances of Japan and the Japanese chemical industry. Recognizing the significance of this groundbreaking research, the MCG Group is sharing this report with society at large. The MCG Group will be building cooperative relationships with a wide range of partners toward a sustainable society.
【References】
*1 Release on 6th, August in 2020
University of Tokyo and Mitsubishi Chemical Agree to Collaborate towards Creation of Circular Economy
*2 Release on 31th, March in 2021
Joint Research between the University of Tokyo and Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation for the Safeguarding of the Global Commons
*3 Release on 13th, September in 2022
Planet Positive Chemicals Report Released from Joint Research for the Conservation of the Global Commons with the University of Tokyo
*4 Academic paper published on 6th, June in 2024
Scope 1, 2, and 3 Net Zero Pathways for the Chemical Industry in Japan
Information is current as of the date of issue of the individual press release. Please be advised that information may be outdated after that point.
