#Japan #Tokyo #Food Industry #carbon footprint

Call for Role Models in Carbon Footprint Calculation

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan has embarked on an initiative to enhance the sustainability of the food industry by soliciting proposals from food businesses to serve as role models in calculating the Carbon Footprint (CFP) of processed foods. This initiative is a vital part of Japan’s broader efforts to promote decarbonization within the food supply chain, aligning with the “Green Food System Strategy” established in May 2021.

Purpose of the Model Project

The aim is not only to calculate the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions along the entire food supply chain but also to provide methods for monitoring emission reductions and visualizing companies’ efforts in GHG reduction. The Ministry has launched this program as a crucial step toward achieving the goals set forth in its strategy by introducing a common CFP calculation guide in April 2025, based on the results of demonstration projects conducted in fiscal years 2023 and 2024.

Through this project, the Ministry seeks to foster innovative practices among food businesses that go beyond mere compliance and instead champion advanced CFP calculation methodologies. Participating companies will refer to the CFP calculation guide to ascertain the carbon footprints of their own products.

Application Overview

Interested businesses are advised to consult detailed application guidelines available in additional resources provided by the Ministry. Key details are as follows:

1. Application Period: From September 1, 2025, to September 30, 2025.
2. Submission Method: Applications should be submitted via email only to the Food Supply Chain Visibility Promotion Project Office.
3. Submission Deadline: All submissions must be received by 3:00 PM JST on September 30, 2025.

Documentation

Applicants can access several supporting documents, including a press release, guidelines, a project overview, and an application form, all of which are crucial for understanding the application process and requirements.

1. Press Release about CFP Role Models (PDF)
2. Application Guidelines (PDF)
3. Project Overview (PDF)
4. Application Form (WORD)

Conclusion

This initiative represents a significant step in promoting sustainability and transparency in the food industry in Japan. By recruiting model businesses to lead the way in carbon footprint calculations, the Ministry aims to create a culture of accountability and excellence among food producers. As the world progresses toward greener practices, initiatives like this will be instrumental in ensuring the food industry plays its part in combating climate change effectively.

References

For further information regarding the decarbonization efforts in the food supply chain, additional resources and links are available through the Ministry’s website.

This call for applications is an opportunity for food businesses to not only comply but also to lead in the challenge against climate change. Let’s make our food systems more sustainable together.