Cleaner Tech

Japan Bets on Homegrown Startups to Adapt to a Hotter World

A pedestrian under cooling mist sprays in the Ginza district of Tokyo.

Photographer: Akio Kon/Bloomberg

Japan is hoping startups can help the fifth-biggest carbon dioxide polluter prepare for and adapt to a warmer world.

The Environment Ministry is offering ¥60 billion ($415 million) of support for the commercialization of homegrown climate and environmental technology through the Japan Green Investment Corp. for Carbon Neutrality, a government-backed fund that invests in ventures to reduce emissions. The effort is expected to promote innovations in aquaculture to flood defenses.