A Perspective on Net Zero Asia

This report analyzes Asia's path to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions, considering regional vulnerabilities to climate change and the balance between positive and negative drivers for decarbonization.

(Generated with the help of GPT-4)

Quick Facts
Report location: source
Language: English
Publisher: Japan Institute of International Affairs
Publication date: October 13, 2021
Authors: Hideyuki Mori
Time horizon: 2050
Geographic focus: Asia
Page count: 9

Methods

The research method involved analyzing current affairs, presentations at research group meetings, and existing literature on Asia's carbon emissions, climate change vulnerability, and decarbonization efforts. It also examined technological scenarios and national strategies towards achieving net zero emissions.

(Generated with the help of GPT-4)

Key Insights

The report from the Japan Institute of International Affairs examines Asia's role as the largest emitter of greenhouse gases due to rapid economic growth and heavy reliance on fossil fuels, particularly coal. It highlights the varying carbon emissions across Asian countries, with China being the largest emitter. The report discusses the vulnerability of Asian countries to climate change impacts, such as typhoons, floods, and heatwaves. It identifies both positive drivers, such as international commitments to carbon neutrality, and negative drivers, like the continued reliance on coal, that influence Asia's pathway to net zero emissions. The report outlines two scenarios: a Lock-in Scenario, which involves incremental changes and continued use of fossil fuel infrastructure, and a Transition Scenario, which requires transformative changes towards carbon-free technologies. It also considers the role of energy conservation and national strategies towards zero carbon, taking into account energy security, economic factors, environmental benefits, and social implications. The report concludes that each Asian country must develop its own strategy towards net zero, considering its unique circumstances and resources.

(Generated with the help of GPT-4)

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