A recent study by the Weather Attribution Center Japan shows that record high temperatures in the country from mid to late July would’ve been impossible without climate change. This must serve as a wake-up call for the Takaichi administration to transition away from fossil fuels, climate group 350.org Japan said.
Masayoshi Iyoda, 350.org Japan Campaigner said:
“The Takaichi government looks into measures to protect citizens from extreme heat but still looks away from its root cause. Science now proves that this record heat has a culprit: fossil fuels. But Prime Minister Takaichi continues to allow the burning of coal in old and inefficient power plants while it puts the brakes on solar and wind power. That’s just turning up the heat.
We have coined a new word to describe these cruelly hot days – kokushobi. It’s time that Japan also adopts new policies that can stop global heating. Only a rapid and just transition away from fossil fuels towards 100% renewable energy can bring lasting heat protection and ensure a more livable and affordable future for everyone.”
Japan’s intense heatwave is driving a massive surge in heatstroke hospitalizations, which exceeded 18,000 cases in the last week of July alone. It has also complicated disaster relief efforts in earthquake-hit regions that are still without water.
Media Contact:
Ilang-Ilang Quijano, 350.org Media Campaigner, [email protected], +639175810934
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