Yamaguchi and Chiba launch decarbonization support for SMEs

Local governments in Japan are launching educational initiatives to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) transition to decarbonized management practices.

In Yamaguchi Prefecture, the prefecture and the Yamaguchi Prefectural Federation of Small and Medium Enterprises are hosting a series of seminars. The program includes lectures on carbon neutral subsidies, Green Transformation (GX) human resource development, and greenhouse gas emission calculations. The curriculum also features site visits to companies like Seiwa Kogyo Co., Ltd. and Sakamoto Iron Works to provide practical insights into energy-saving measures and decarbonization implementation.

Similarly, Chiba Prefecture is conducting a “Decarbonization School” managed by the Chibagin Research Institute. This program aims to assist local businesses in managing rising energy costs and meeting environmental requirements from business partners. Participants can receive free expert consultations, including energy-saving improvement reports and assistance in creating decarbonization roadmaps, which may be published on the Chiba Prefecture website to promote their efforts.