It was a pleasure to moderate a seminar at the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), "The Green Wind from the East: Japan Challenging Global Development Norms?". The seminar highlighted the importance of sustainability in today's global landscape, focusing on Japan and ASEAN countries.
The discussion began with an overview of JICA's Global Agenda for Climate Change, emphasising their commitment to the Paris Agreement through co-benefit approaches in development projects. This provided a foundation for understanding how JICA integrates climate resilience into its international cooperation strategies.
Presenters discussed the technological advancements and financial mechanisms driving sustainability in Japan and Asia. From scaling up climate finance to exploring decarbonisation pathways, the seminar examined practical strategies for implementation. Experts commented on how energy choices impact social structures both locally and globally. This was crucial for understanding the broader implications of energy policies and transitions.
The seminar concluded with a forward-looking approach, focusing on how JICA can lead in fostering energy transitions across regions like Southeast Asia. The seminar was not just a platform for sharing knowledge but a call to action, urging all stakeholders to engage more deeply in sustainable practices, policy-making, and technological innovation for the needs of SDGs.
