(Construction) - The G7 Sustainable Urban Development Ministers’ Meeting, hosted by Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, was held in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture from July 7-9, 2023.
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Under the theme "Achieving Sustainable Urban Development Together," the ministers discussed the Net Zero Initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to virtually zero, as well as measures to utilize digital technology. They agreed to work together to secure green spaces in cities and promote energy-efficient buildings to realize a decarbonized society. This is the second meeting of the urban development ministers, following the one in Potsdam, Germany, in September 2022.
At a press conference held after the conclusion of the meeting on July 9, Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Tetsuo Saito, in his capacity as chairman of the meeting, said, "Takamatsu City is surrounded by the sea and mountains and is rich in nature. It was very meaningful for me to discuss with the G7 ministers the problems facing cities and how to respond to them in such a blessed place."
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| G7 Urban Development Ministers agree to work together in decarbonization and digitization |
Minister Saito highlighted the outcome of the meeting with the adoption of the joint statement, saying, "We have been able to put together a strong message for the realization of sustainable cities together.” The statement emphasized the importance of securing green spaces in cities to achieve net-zero emissions and suggested the need to improve the market environment so that private sector investment can be directed toward securing green spaces.
On digitization, the joint statement clearly stated the importance of standardizing and opening up land, building and other data held by governments and local authorities. It also included a policy to promote human resource development, especially for small and medium-sized local governments, so that everyone can benefit from digitalization. (2023/08/09)
The Daily Engineering and Construction News of Japan
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