Estimation of Reduction in CO₂ Emissions by Using ICT Throughout Japan

Many countries, including Japan, have taken measures to reduce the load placed on the environment, thus, helping reduce the effects of global warming. One measure, the spread of information and communications technology (ICT) has increased the effects of global warming. However, ICT is expected to be of benefit regarding environmental load reduction, specifically by making it possible to reduce CO₂ emissions. Such technology can reduce the need for human physical effort and enhance the efficiency of physical distribution and other industrial activities. The use of ICT to estimate the reduction in CO₂ emissions is important if the government is to adopt a policy of promoting ICT and addressing environmental issues. Since 2003, we have continuously estimated the reduction in CO₂ emissions throughout Japan while updating the estimation factors. In this paper, we report on the results of an estimation of the 2013 data. The reduction in CO₂ emissions in 2013 was less than that for 2012, which was predicted in 2008. By analyzing the estimation factors, we reveal that these results are due to the ICT penetration rate. We also discuss a future prediction based on the penetration rate obtained for 2013.