On March 22 and 23, the Japanese Ministry of the Environment (MOEJ), the Japan-based Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) and U.S. EPA (EPA) held a workshop on Climate Change Actions and Co-Benefits. Participants agreed to strengthen international cooperation on actions that improve air quality and promote clean energy, energy security, and economic opportunities at home and abroad. EPA and its Japanese partners explored options for collaborating on projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions globally and encourage sustainable development.

MOEJ presented, in addition to other programs and policy initiatives, Japan’s new Climate Change Program which includes improved energy efficiency and an awareness campaign titled "Cool Biz". IGES highlighted Japan’s Voluntary Emissions Trading Scheme which provides an economic incentive to corporations to reduce emissions while building a base of knowledge and experience with trading scenarios. EPA showcased its experience in several voluntary and capacity building programs that reap environmental benefits, including the Landfill Methane Outreach Program and the Integrated Environmental Strategies Program.

The U.S.-Japan partnership supports the recently launched Asia-Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate that promotes projects and programs to protect the environment, improve public health, and enhance economic growth worldwide.

All presentations from the March workshop, as well as a summary of the workshop, are available on the internet at www.epa.gov/ies/Workshop.