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Advance in Sustainability

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Article Open Access http://dx.doi.org/10.26855/as.2025.06.001

The Role of NGOs in Making National Carbon Neutrality Policy in Germany and Japan

Xinyu Li

Department of International Relations, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, South Korea.

*Corresponding author:Xinyu Li

Published: May 19,2025

Abstract

As climate change continues to pose significant challenges, countries must balance environmental action with economic recovery. During COP21 in 2015, member states pledged to achieve carbon neutrality and set emission reduction targets based on national circumstances. While most countries aim for 2050, variations exist due to differences in total carbon emissions, economic structures, and environmental policies. This study examines why Germany has set its carbon neutrality goal for 2045, while Japan maintains a 2050 target, despite their similar economic models, carbon emission levels, and strong environmental commitments. The findings reveal that Germany’s environmental policies are heavily influenced by non-governmental organizations (NGOs), which actively shape policy decisions, while Japan’s approach is primarily government-led. By comparing these two cases, this study argues that the role of NGOs is a key factor influencing climate policy timelines. These findings offer insights into how different policymaking structures impact carbon neutrality goals and provide valuable lessons for countries refining their environmental policy frameworks.

Keywords

Germany; Japan; Carbon neutrality; NGO; Environmental policy

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How to cite this paper

The Role of NGOs in Making National Carbon Neutrality Policy in Germany and Japan

How to cite this paper: Xinyu Li. (2025). The Role of NGOs in Making National Carbon Neutrality Policy in Germany and Japan. Advance in Sustainability, 5(1), 1-9.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.26855/as.2025.06.001