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Introduction

Cool Earth 50 is a Japanese expansion on the Kyoto Protocol. The Cool Earth 50 was proposed by Mr. Sugita, the president of Nikkei Inc, in May of 2007. The proposed goal was to reduce CO2 emission by 50% by the year 2050. The Cool Earth 50 proposal includes 3 steps in order to achieve the C02 emission decrease; a long term strategy, a mid-term strategy and launching a national campaign.

Background on the Kyoto Protocol '

The Kyoto Protocol is the base line of the Cool Earth 50 proposal. The protocol is a legally binding carbon emissions target to be achieved during a specific time frame. Japan is one of 21 countries to sign the proposal. The protocol came into effect in February, 2005.

Long Term Strategy

The long term proposed target was to cut global emissions by half from the current levels by the year 2050. As of now technology is unable to assist in halving emissions .Therefor as part of the long term strategy it is proposed that emphasis be placed on developing technologies centered around creating a low carbon society.

Mid Term Strategy

The midterm strategy is focused on three key objectives. The first is global cooperation by the top producers of carbon emissions worldwide .The second is the flexibility and diversity of the protocol. The idea is that if the circumstances of each country is taken into account, the higher participation would be. The third objective is reaching a middle ground between economic growth and environmental change. One should not have to cause the other to suffer.

Launching A National Campaign

In order to achieve the 50% decrease in carbon emissions it is proposed that the the whole country needs to be involved. The slogan of the campaign is “ 1 person, 1 day, 1 Kg”. This idea calls upon individuals to examine their contribution to the overall emissions of the country. Some examples, provided by Mr. Sugita, President on Nikkei Inc., that can be implemented in day to day life are, casual dress without a tie or jacket to reduce the use of air conditioners in the workplace, reduce the amount of garbage and replacement of incandescent light bulbs with fluorescent lights.

International Assistance

As part of the Cool Earth 50 initiative Japan has developed an assistance initiative for developing countries in order to aid in their reduction of greenhouse gases. The first form of assistance is up to 2 billion dollars to aid in adaptation to climate change and improved access to clean energy. The second form is 8 million for reduction of the severity and seriousness of green houses gases. Through these two initiatives Japan hope to be able to aid countries who cannot afford to make the necessary changes on their own.