JAPAN - The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) is working on a new system to display the carbon footprint of products on its packaging as part of its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The Ministry said in a statement, “By allowing companies to advertise their efforts to combat global warming directly to consumers through labels on their products, this system is expected to encourage companies to further their efforts to reduce CO2 emissions, while helping consumers recognize the amount of CO2 they generate.”

METI had first organized a study group in June 2008 to discuss what kind of carbon footprint program – where products will carry a label indicating CO2 emissions generated throughout their lifecycles - Japan should develop with an eye towards future implementation and promotion.

Another group – the Study Group on Rules on the Calculation, Labelling and Evaluation of CO2 Emissions – was set up in July. So far, discussions involving the program have evolved around the methods of calculating and displaying carbon footprints, and the systems to ensure reliability of displayed information. 

The study group is also considering suggestions to make the system a voluntary one for retailers and manufacturers, with standardised labeling to show the amount of carbon created in the production, shipping and even the market.

A total of 27 industry groups, including those from manufacturing, service, food, and logistics, are being consulted.

METI said that a final report will be published and a definite course of action decided upon by end 2008.

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