Mount Fuji, with its iconic snow-capped peak, has long symbolised Japan’s seasonal changes and cultural identity. Traditionally, snow first blankets Mount Fuji by early October, a pattern observed since 1894. However, the summer of 2024 was extraordinarily hot, delaying the appearance of snow and marking the longest snowless period on record. The latest recorded snow onset dates, October 26 in both 1955 and 2016, have now been surpassed. This disruption to the usual snow cycle is a visible reminder of global warming's far-reaching effects, underscoring the urgency of climate action to protect our environment and heritage.
Climate Change Indicators: The Snowless Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji’s lack of snow this year highlights a concerning trend: climate change is disrupting established weather patterns. Average temperatures across Japan have been rising steadily, leading to hotter summers and delayed snowfall. This change is not isolated to Japan—scientists worldwide agree that greenhouse gas emissions are raising global temperatures, altering precipitation, and reshaping climate norms. As Mount Fuji remains snowless well into October, it serves as a striking indicator of climate change and the urgent need to curb carbon emissions.
The disruption of Mount Fuji’s snowfall is more than a seasonal anomaly; it’s part of a broader climate shift. Rising temperatures and changing jet stream patterns bring warmer air to Japan, resulting in more "extremely hot" days that prevent the formation of snow. This phenomenon illustrates how climate change affects not only natural landmarks but also ecosystems, agriculture, and even seasonal economic activities.
Impact of Rising Temperatures on Japan’s Seasonal Norms
Over the past century, Japan has experienced significant warming, affecting its seasonal rhythms. With each passing year, average temperatures have steadily risen, and summers, like that of 2024, have become exceptionally hot. This shift is largely driven by greenhouse gas emissions that trap heat and destabilise climate patterns. Changes in the sub-tropical jet stream compound these effects, introducing warmer air to Japan and complicating snow formation on peaks like Mount Fuji. As natural and cultural landmarks are impacted, it’s essential to take proactive steps in reducing emissions and promoting sustainable practices to help mitigate these changes.
The Business Sector's Role in Tackling Carbon Emissions
While individuals are encouraged to reduce their carbon footprint, businesses play a central role in addressing the climate crisis. Studies reveal that over 70% of global emissions are attributable to the corporate sector, particularly industries like manufacturing, energy, and transportation. These industries, responsible for both direct emissions (Scope 1) and indirect emissions through electricity use and supply chains (Scopes 2 and 3), collectively contribute to climate change on a massive scale. Reducing these emissions requires active, measurable steps from companies, such as adopting carbon-neutral practices, using renewable energy, and implementing energy-efficient processes.
A shift toward business sustainability and carbon reduction is not only environmentally essential but also financially beneficial. Companies that demonstrate commitment to sustainability are increasingly favoured by investors and consumers. In fact, 88% of institutional investors consider a company’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics in their decision-making processes, and 60% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products. Businesses, therefore, have a dual incentive to reduce emissions: mitigating their environmental impact and enhancing their market appeal.
How Businesses Can Contribute to Sustainable Change
- Implement Emission Reduction Strategies: Companies should start by assessing their carbon footprint across Scopes 1, 2, and 3, identifying areas where they can reduce emissions. This might include optimising energy use, transitioning to renewable power sources, and improving supply chain efficiency.
- Set Clear, Science-Based Targets: Aligning emission reduction goals with the Paris Agreement’s target of limiting global warming to 1.5°C can help guide meaningful action. Science-based targets provide a structured framework for companies to reduce their environmental impact in line with global standards.
- Adopt Nature-Based Solutions: Businesses can invest in reforestation, conservation, and other nature-based projects to offset emissions they cannot yet eliminate. By protecting and restoring natural carbon sinks, companies can help counteract some of the environmental damage caused by industrial activity.
- Incorporate Sustainable Events and Operations: To achieve a carbon-neutral status, businesses can implement practices that reduce their operational footprint. Sustainable events, for example, involve minimising waste, choosing eco-friendly vendors, and offsetting emissions, aligning with frameworks like the Climate Active Carbon Neutral Standard.
The Importance of Immediate Action
Mount Fuji’s snowless peak is a powerful symbol of our changing world and a reminder of the urgent need for climate action. The science is clear: if we continue emitting carbon at current rates, the impacts will only intensify, affecting not only landscapes like Mount Fuji but also entire ecosystems, economies, and ways of life.
While the path to sustainability may present challenges, each step taken contributes to a more stable climate and a healthier planet for future generations.
Take Action Today
If you’re ready to make your business part of the solution, NetNada offers a suite of carbon accounting and sustainability tools to help you reduce emissions effectively. Book a free call with us today to start your journey toward impactful, environmentally responsible business practices. Together, we can preserve our iconic landscapes and contribute to a sustainable future.
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