Japan won't join intl eco-agency

The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 31, 2008

The government has decided not to join the International Renewable Energy Agency, a multinational organization tasked with the promotion of solar, wind and other forms of bioenergy to be launched next month, according to government sources.

The government said it would not be joining the body because the functions of IRENA overlap those of the International Energy Agency, in which Japan currently holds the seat of executive director.

Some observers have voiced concern, however, that the decision might be seen by the international community as a sign Japan is reluctant to address environmental issues.

Germany has led the push to establish IRENA. The entity will help member countries transfer technologies, procure funds and share information relating to renewable energy sources, tackling global warming and the depletion of fossil fuels.

Though Germany repeatedly asked Japan to join IRENA, the government declined for the time being.

A senior Foreign Ministry official said, "The IEA has been making efforts to expand the use of renewable energy, so a new organization isn't necessary."

The government has expressed reluctance to join IRENA partly because Japan likely would be asked to contribute hundreds of thousands of yen a year to the new entity at a time when the national economy is weak.

However, dozens of nations, including developing nations, likely will join IRENA, while the IEA only comprises 28 members, mainly industrialized nations.

The fight against global warming requires efforts to taken by developing nations in addition to the measures already implemented by industrialized countries.

Some government officials have, therefore, urged the government to actively utilize IRENA to this effect. In addition, it has been noted that Japanese industries would benefit from the measures the body will promote.

"Joining IRENA would contribute to the proliferation of Japanese technologies, such as solar power generation," one official said.

Government sources said the United States also will not be joining IRENA. But as U.S. President-elect Barack Obama has called for a shift from fossil fuels to renewables, some government officials have said Washington might change its stance when the new administration is launched.

© The Yomiuri Shimbun

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