On 4 October 2024, UNU-IAS expert Akio Takemoto (Head of Programme and Administration, UNU-IAS) participated in a panel discussion on the theme “Climate Change – Is It Too Late to Save the Planet?”. Organized by the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Japan (FCCJ), the event featured experts on climate policy and sustainable finance.
Dr. Takemoto stressed the importance of focusing on sustainable development to address the climate crisis. He called for achieving net-zero emissions through a just and inclusive transition that reduces poverty and increases access to social protection.
Noting that the net-zero transition could not eliminate all negative climate impacts, Dr. Takemoto underscored the need for governments and local authorities to develop disaster risk reduction strategies that strengthen climate resilience.
The global community must work together to provide support for the most vulnerable people and address the loss and damage associated with climate impacts. Dr. Takemoto also emphasized the need for human resource development and youth empowerment to enable meaningful citizen participation in policymaking processes.
A recording of the event is available on the FCCJ YouTube channel.
