2025 EACNCA | Tokyo: Advancing VOCs reduction through a “best mix” approach, balancing direct regulation, voluntary efforts, and public participation

ICLEI East Asia launched the East Asia Carbon Neutral Cities Accelerator (EACNCA) project in 2024 and has implemented it annually to highlight decarbonization efforts of local governments across the region. The project systematically documents innovative practices and governance experiences of cities on their path towards carbon neutrality, aiming to serve as references for policymaking and knowledge exchange, and inspire global cities to scale up climate action and replicate successful models. The 2025 EACNCA focuses on the governance of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), key precursors to PM₂.₅ and ozone, in three East Asian capital cities: Seoul, Beijing, and Tokyo. Tokyo’s approach to reducing VOCs combines regulation and voluntary efforts across various sectors, focusing on industrial, transportation, and domestic sources. Key initiatives include support for SMEs, seasonal management, vapor loss mitigation at gas stations, and promoting low-VOC products.