Initiatives of the Japanese government and companies
Initiatives of the Japanese government
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe delivered a statement at the United Nations Sustainable Development Summit 2015, at which the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development was adopted. In his statement, Prime Minister Abe welcomed the adoption of the Agenda that includes as core components those upon which Japan has been placing emphasis. He also stated that the implementation of this agenda requires a new global partnership in which all stakeholders play their respective roles, and that Japan, as part of this partnership, will make its best possible efforts to implement the Agenda.
In May 2016, the Japanese government established the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Promotion Headquarters, which is headed by the prime minister. Its aim is to promote measures related to the SDGs comprehensively and effectively through close cooperation between the relevant administrative bodies. To play the leading role in both activities in Japan and international cooperation, the Headquarters will implement initiatives beyond boundaries between ministries and agencies and promote measures based on implementation guidelines.
Initiatives of companies (private sector)
It is expected that not only governments but also civil society, companies (the private sector), and all other stakeholders will contribute to achieving the Agenda. The activities, investments, and innovations of private companies are important keys for productivity improvement, inclusive economic development, and employment creation, and companies are required to exercise their creativity and make innovation happen to solve issues in sustainable development. United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon made the following statement:
“Business is a vital partner in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Companies can contribute through their core activities, and we ask companies everywhere to assess their impact, set ambitious goals and communicate transparently about the results.”
The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the United Nations Global Compact, and the SDG Compass by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) have been established as action agendas for companies toward the SDGs. The SDG Compass explains how the SDGs affect the business of each company and offers the tools and knowledge for placing sustainability at the heart of each company's strategy.