Environmental & Social Materiality>Climate Change
The Marubeni Long-Term Vision on Climate Change: Towards Net-Zero GHG Emissions
Marubeni official website. This page offers you information about our Initiatives for Climate Change.
The Marubeni Group recognizes climate change as a global and highly urgent social issue, and identifies it as one of its Environmental and Social materiality. In our Medium-Term Management Strategy, GC2024, which we released in February 2022, we see “strengthening our green business*1” and “promoting the greening in all our business domains” as core business for our growth. We aim to transform the total environmental impact of its business activities to a positive one by contributing to low-carbon and decarbonization through our business activities while ourselves achieving net-zero GHG emissions.
Recognizing the importance of climate-related financial disclosures, the Marubeni Group affirmed the recommendations of the TCFD*2 in February 2019.
We are endeavoring to evaluate risks and opportunities engendered by climate change and to enhance related disclosure.
Click here to view the latest version (September 2021 (Revised December 2021))
In order to work toward a low-carbon society that mitigates the effects of climate change as part of sustainable development goals, Marubeni is actively pursuing and expanding renewable energy power projects.*3
For detailed information on renewable energy business in Japan, click here.
The Marubeni Group considers micro-scale hydro-power generation as an important business area, and has been conducting operations in this area through Group company, Mibugawa Electric Power Company since 2006. As this business utilizes natural energy sources, consideration for the environment is essential, and we are also actively working on reduction of waste materials, maintenance of water quality, conservation of energy and resources, and other environmental activities.
“Micro-scale hydro-power generation” is a term used to refer to small-scale hydropower generation operations with output of less than 1,000 kW. These operations do not require the use of dams or other facilities that entail large-scale construction projects, but rather generate power by utilizing streams or agricultural irrigation canals, thus minimizing the development footprint. The environmental impact on water quality and the water habitat is exceptionally low, and there is no impact on land features or scenic beauty. Once up and running, these operations emit almost no CO2, thereby offering benefits in terms of minimal impact on biodiversity and environmental conservation. Since it utilizes local water resources, it has the potential to be an effective technology to realize the production and consumption of local energy, which will be beneficial for the independent development of the region. Moreover, to develop a power plant that coexists with the local community, we are trying to realize the project with the understanding and cooperation of local organization and people concerned through holding events on the theme of environment for residents, inviting lecturers, and deepening understanding of the history of the planned site.
In addition to the Mibugawa Power Station, the Marubeni Group currently operates the following micro-hydro power generation facilities.
Facility | Location | Approved Output |
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Mibugawa Power Station No. 1 | Ina City, Nagano Prefecture | 23,100kW |
Mibugawa Power Station No. 2 | 10,800kW | |
Mibugawa Power Station No. 3 | 260kW | |
Mibugawa Power Station No. 4 | 480kW | |
Tateshina Power Station | Chino City, Nagano Prefecture | 260kW |
Tateshina Power Station No. 2 | 141kW | |
Tateshina Power Station No. 3 | 93kW | |
Tateshina Power Station No. 4 | 145kW | |
Shinmiyagawa Power Station | Komagane City, Nagano Prefecture | 195kW |
Hokuto Nishizawa Power Station | Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture | 220kW |
Hokuto Kagoishi Power Station | 230kW | |
Hokuto Kurabara Power Station | 200kW | |
Honmonji Power Station No.1 | Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture | 120kW |
Honmonji Power Station No.2 | 140kW | |
Shiroishi Power Station | Shiroishi City, Miyagi Prefecture | 95kW |
Hananosato Power Station | Shimogo, Fukushima Prefecture | 175kW |
Banyagawa Power Station | 150kW | |
Himenuma Power Station | Inawashiro, Fukushima Prefecture | 160kW |
Minochigawa Power Station | Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture | 180kW |
Sagotani Power Station | 108kW | |
Toyohira Power Station | Kitahiroshima, Hiroshima Prefecture | 112kW |
Tsukuyone Power Station | Wasaku Town, Tottori Prefecture | 7,890kW |
Oshika Power Station No.1 | Misasa Town, Tottori Prefecture | 3,700kW |
Oshika Power Station No.2 | Misasa Town, Tottori Prefecture | 4,990kW |
Hinogawa Power Station No.1 | Hino Town, Tottori Prefecture | 4,300kW |
Mibugawa Power Station has obtained Eco Action 21*4 certification, the first hydro-power facility to do so. Given that the intake of Power Station No. 2, which is located at the highest elevation, is next to a quasi-national park, and the facilities of the Mibugawa Power Station are in a region with high biodiversity value, we strive not only to avoid destruction of nature, but also to preserve it. As part of that effort, in addition to conducting river cleanup activities and facility maintenance and emergency response training to be prepared for possible oil spills, Mibugawa Power Station takes measures for protection of biodiversity by conducting water quality inspections twice a year, not only to determine whether pollutants are present, but also to check whether the water has the oxygen content required by living organisms. The facility also welcomes local elementary and middle school students and over 100 residents each year for tours of the power station, and presents exhibits of hybrid power generation systems (wind, solar and hydro-power). These and other activities help educate people about renewable energy and pass on the region’s traditional culture.
At the Hokuto City Murayamarokkamuraseki Waterfarm*5, we use existing irrigation canals to supply renewable energy while making appropriate adjustments to the volume of water used to ensure adequate supplies of irrigation water for farmland and water for household use.
At the micro-scale hydro-power station in Shiroishi City, Miyagi Prefecture, the elevation difference in water pipes of water supply facilities is used to generate electricity with minimal impact on the surrounding environment.
In addition, in selling power through Marubeni Power Retail Corporation, we are helping to improve biodiversity by allocating a portion of the electricity fees to forest maintenance and management.
The Marubeni Group aims to develop about 40 micro-scale hydro-power generation facilities in Japan by 2025. Across Japan, we are actively working on generation of renewable energy that contributes to conservation of the local environment and biodiversity.
M&C Tottori Hydroelectric Power Co., Ltd. (hereafter, M&C Tottori Hydroelectric Power) believes that building a trusting relationship through communication with local residents is essential for the safe and secure operation of hydroelectric power generation projects. To this end, M&C Tottori Hydro Power has appointed a “staff member in charge of community coexistence” and has made efforts to reflect residents' opinions of its operations on its website. In addition, the company regularly communicates with local stakeholders, including six local municipalities (Wakasa, Yazu, Kurayoshi, Misasa, Nichinan and Hino Town) and various councils on important issues related to the environmental impacts, e.g. on rivers and a stable water supply, that may arise from construction, inspections, etc. Thanks to these initiatives, M&C Tottori Hydroelectric Power understands each municipality’s needs (including complaints) and business risks and incorporates them into its management strategy.
In addition, M&C Tottori Hydro plans to offer on-site classes and work experience for elementary and junior high schools on the theme of hydroelectric power generation projects. M&C Tottori Hydroelectric Power contributes to the economic development of the region by improving the knowledge of local residents and linking it to the development of the next generation of human resources.
Marubeni Clean Power Corporation (hereafter, “Marubeni Clean Power”) is “committed to solving local social issues and coexisting with local communities and the natural environment.” Therefore, Marubeni Clean Power is developing renewable energies, mainly biomass, with the aim of realizing a “stable energy supply closely linked to the community.” As part of its business activities, Marubeni Clean Power is actively involved in interactions with local stakeholders, such as local environmental fairs and beautification campaigns, conducting power plant tours and distributing solar kits to local elementary school children, and participating in study sessions of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Marubeni Clean Power participates in the “Association of Biomass Power Producers” (hereafter, the Association) as a regular member (Director Company) and serves as its representative director. The Association, which was primarily established by power generation companies, promotes the biomass power generation business and the sound development of the biomass industry, working to help build a sustainable, recycling-oriented society and foster global environmental conservation.
Marubeni Ina Mirai Denki Corporation*6 provides electric power retail and energy-related services in and around Ina City, Nagano Prefecture, with the aim of offering services that address the challenges of daily life in the community. As part of its investment in the community, the company has installed “quick chargers for cars,” which contribute to the local production and consumption of electricity. The company is a member of the Sustainable Environment Subcommittee of the New Industrial Technology Promotion Council under the jurisdiction of Ina City, and it is taking the initiative to work together to build a sustainable environment, including a focus on issues such as climate change and biodiversity.
The Marubeni Group's Mibugawa Power Company also operates a hydroelectric power generation business in the area. As a group, the company will contribute to sustainable regional development by building a business portfolio that helps build a society in harmony with the local community.
Throughout Japan, in addition to the development of micro-scale hydro-power generation projects, the Marubeni Group is actively working on generation of renewable energy that contributes to conservation of the global environment and biodiversity.
<Click here to view Greenhouse Gas Emissions metrics and targets>
FYE 3/2017 | FYE 3/2018 | FYE 3/2019 | FYE 3/2020 | FYE 3/2021 | ||
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Scope1 | Marubeni Corporation’s principal offices | 41 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 12 |
Marubeni Corporation’s other offices + consolidated subsidiaries |
626,237 | 682,402 | 726,704 | 773,194 | 797,963 | |
Sub Total | 626,278 | 682,406 | 726,708 | 773,198 | 797,975 (Including non-energy related GHG emission*7) (683,025 (Excepting for non-energy related GHG emission*7)) |
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Scope2 | Marubeni Corporation’s principal offices | 3,425 | 2,457 | 2,439 | 2,307 | 2,146 |
Marubeni Corporation’s other offices + consolidated subsidiaries |
277,706 | 274,413 | 305,776 | 308,193 | 280,025 | |
Sub Total | 281,131 | 276,870 | 308,215 | 310,500 | 282,171 | |
Grand Total | 907,409 | 959,276 | 1,034,922 | 1,083,698 | 1,080,146 (Including non-energy related GHG emission*7) (965,196 (Excepting for non-energy related GHG emission*7)) |
FYE 3/2021 | ||
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Total amount | 114,950 | |
Components | Carbon dioxide (CO2) | 5,203 |
Methane (CH4) | 72,081 | |
Dinitrogen monoxide (N2O) | 36,602 | |
Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) | 1,064 | |
Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) | 0 | |
Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) | 0 | |
Nitrogen trifluoride (NF3) | 0 |
In recent years, companies are required to further disclose information related to climate change and resource issues, toward creating a sustainable society. In calculating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that have significant effects on climate change, in addition to Scope 1 (direct emissions) and Scope 2 (energy-originated indirect emission), more and more companies are calculating and reporting GHG emissions for the overall corporate activities (Scope 3) such as resource procurement, production, logistics, sales, and disposal, as well as capital goods, business travel, and commuting. Marubeni is voluntarily disclosing a part of the data by categorizing its supply chain activities and calculating the GHG emissions in each category in line with the GHG Protocol guidelines. The Scope 3 data is also submitted to the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) climate change questionnaire.
FYE 3/2020 | FYE 3/2021 | ||
---|---|---|---|
Scope3 CO2 emissions (Category 15: Investment) | approx. 26 million | approx. 25 million | |
Breakdown | Power generation | approx. 22 million | approx. 21 million |
Resource projects | approx. 3 million | approx. 3 million | |
Other businesses | approx. 1 million | approx. 1 million |
<Click here to view Tokyo Head Office and Osaka Branch's Target to be achieved by FYE 3/2021.>
<Click here to view carbon neutral at all Marubeni Corporation's domestic business locations.>
FYE 3/2017 | FYE 3/2018 | FYE 3/2019 | FYE 3/2020 | FYE 3/2021 | |
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Electricity consumption of Marubeni Corporation's principal offices (Unit: MWh) | 7,239 | 5,021 | 5,180 | 5,227 | 4,629 |
Energy consumption of Marubeni Corporation and consolidated subsidiaries (Unit: TJ) | 12,740 | 13,532 | 14,384 | 15,303 | 13,771 |
FYE 3/2017 | FYE 3/2018 | FYE 3/2019 | FYE 3/2020 | FYE 3/2021 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Amount transported (Thousand ton-km) | 565,792 | 472,290 | 508,498 | 484,678 | 364,538 |
CO2 emissions (metric ton CO2) | 27,938 | 21,445 | 22,705 | 22,617 | 17,516 |
Intensity (kl crude oil eq per thousand ton-km) | 0.0183 | 0.0168 | 0.0165 | 0.0173 | 0.0178 |
Data | Contents | FYE 3/2022*8 |
---|---|---|
Cost of climate change risk aversion | Emergency power generation and flood countermeasures due to extreme weather conditions | 5,732 |
Research and development expenses for climate change risk aversion | Research and development expenses related to forest conservation, etc. | 2,830 |
CDP*9 (is an international environmental non-profit organization) analyzes and assesses the collected information, and makes it available to investors. Marubeni has participated in the initiative of CDP since 2007. In 2021 Marubeni received A- grades in the areas of climate change and forest protection by CDP. And the Company was selected as an A-list company in their water security program.
This year's CDP A-List and other published scores can be found here
Marubeni actively participates in subcommittees and workshops on climate change held by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Ministry of the Environment. In the year ended March 31, 2019, we became a working-group member of the METI Study Group on Implementing TCFD Recommendations for Mobilizing Green Finance through Proactive Corporate Disclosure (Study Group on Implementing TCFD Recommendations), and have discussions with other group-member companies on the best approach to disclosure of the financial impact of climate change.
The Company has announced its support for the basic concept of the “Green Transformation League” (tentative name, hereafter “GX League”), which the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) plans to establish. It has also announced its participation in a secretariat for the preparation towards establishing the GX League.
The GX League aims to transform the economic and social system by engaging a group of companies working to decarbonize their operations, as well as governmental, academic, and financial institutions, discuss the creation of sustainable markets and rule-making, as well as emissions trading. By taking an active role in the establishment of this league, the Company will contribute to efforts to address climate change.
As a member of the Japan Foreign Trade Council (JFTC), Marubeni agrees with the Low-Carbon Society (Plan for achieving the post-Kyoto Protocol Targets) proposed by Nippon Keidanren (“Keidanren”), and takes part in the working groups and public meetings on climate change held by Keidanren and JFTC.
Marubeni takes climate change countermeasures in accordance with the policies of Keidanren’s Low-Carbon Society. We have set the goal of reducing the energy use (electricity and gas) at the Tokyo Head Office by 10% or more in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2026 relative to the fiscal year ended March 31, 2016, by introducing energy-saving facilities etc. (Marubeni takes initiatives for climate change countermeasures regardless of the level of influence of the affiliated industry group.)
Marubeni takes part in discussions related to environmental initiatives of trading companies, as a member of the Global Environment Committee of the Japan Foreign Trade Council (JFTC).
At the Committee, we make plans for the Voluntary Action on the Environment (Commitment to a Low Carbon Society) for the trading company industry, grasp energy consumption, promote the 3R (reduce, reuse, recycle) activity, and incorporate new energy through our business activities.
The Marubeni subsidiary Mibugawa Power Company takes part in the Japan Climate Initiative and promotes renewable energy projects with the aim of creating a society that leaves a minimal carbon footprint.
Since 2005, Mibugawa Electric Power Co., Ltd. has been participating in “Eco Action 21,” a program of the Ministry of the Environment. In registering for certification under this system, the company continues to “establish and operate effective and efficient methods for environmental initiatives, set environmental goals, take action, summarize, evaluate, and report results.” In 2015, the Eco Action 21 Central Secretariat presented the company with a letter of appreciation and a commemorative gift in recognition of these efforts. The company will continue to take positive action to protect the global environment by reducing waste, maintaining water quality, conserving energy and resources, and conducting local environmental activities.
Achievements from April 1, 2000 to March 31, 2021 | Targets from April 1, 2001 to March 31, 2022 | Action Plan | |
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Reduction of fuel consumption by company vehicles | Average fuel consumption for all company cars: 13.52 km/L | Average fuel consumption for all company cars: 13.52 km/L or higher |
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Reduction of electricity used at business sites | Electricity used at Centralized Control Room: 133,532 kWh | Electricity used at Centralized Control Room: up to 132,993 kWh | Ensure proper use of air conditioning and turn off unused lights |
Reduction of general emissions |
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We have a full membership of the Japan Sustainable Fashion Alliance (hereinafter “JSFA”), a platform for corporate collaboration that aims to jointly find solutions to sustainable fashion issues. With the goals of achieving “zero fashion loss through proper quantity of production and purchasing, recycling” and “carbon neutral of the fashion and textile industries in 2050,” we collaborate to identify solutions to the common issues that arise in the fashion and textile industries, and promote the transition to a sustainable fashion industry. As a company that identifies “Climate Change” as one of our Environmental & Social Materialities, we participate within a leading role in the JSFA as a full member and will contribute to the transition to a sustainable fashion industry through the activities of the alliance.
Marubeni is an investor in Japan CCS Co., Ltd., which was established in May 2008, in response to the Japanese government’s call for the development of CCS*10 technologies as a countermeasure to global warming. It was founded by major private-sector firms with expertise in CCS-related fields joining forces to meet the new demands. As a private-sector corporation that brings together and integrates CCS technologies, the company conducts surveys on how to commercialize technologies for the separation, capture, transport, and geological storage of CO2, as well as R&D and testing in these fields.
Marubeni is working on a project to verify the establishment of an international supply chain to liquify hydrogen produced with unused lignite (i.e. “brown coal”) from Victoria, Australia, and transport it to Japan. For the future commercialization of liquified hydrogen made with this technology, it will be necessary to use CCS technologies to capture, and store the CO2 generated in the hydrogen production process. In part because of this, Marubeni regularly visits the Tomakomai CCS Demonstration Project Center, which is a facility in the city of Tomakomai, Hokkaido, operated by Japan CCS Co., Ltd., to observe the work done there. The demonstration project has been running from FY2012 to FY2019, and is slated to store a cumulative total of 300,000 tons of carbon dioxide underground.