Vientiane, 21 September 2024: ERIA President Tetsuya Watanabe delivered a policy paper titled ‘Navigating the Path to a Net-Zero Economy: Decarbonisation and Sustainability Initiatives in EAS Countries’ during the ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) Consultation in Vientiane, Lao PDR. This paper follows ERIA’s initial presentation at the AEM Retreat in March 2024, held in Luang Prabang, Lao PDR, further advancing the dialogue on sustainable economic transformation in the East Asia Summit (EAS) region.

In his presentation, President Watanabe underscored the urgency of achieving a net-zero economy across the EAS region, emphasising that this mission can be accomplished through a sustainability-focused approach. Central to this strategy is the 4P Framework (Public–Private–People Partnership), which integrates contributions from governments, businesses, and civil society to drive effective decarbonisation efforts.

President Watanabe also provided specific recommendations and outlined strategic actions for the EAS region. These actions aim to guide the region towards a sustainable, low-carbon future while ensuring economic growth and inclusivity.

‘Transitioning the EAS region to a low-carbon, sustainable economy means making it greener, more inclusive, and profitable,’ President Watanabe stated. He further stressed that ‘Sustainable practices should drive economic growth while maintaining a balance across natural, social, human, and financial capital.’

He affirmed, ‘Growth, sustainability, and the low-carbon transition are mutually reinforcing goals. Achieving one does not require sacrificing the others.’

In conclusion, President Watanabe introduced the ERIA-Asia Zero Emission Centre, launched in August 2024, as a common policy platform for multistakeholder engagement, while developing strategic research programmes and promoting collaboration with other ASEAN organisations. ERIA’s contributions continue to shape the regional conversation on sustainability and decarbonisation, positioning the EAS region as a leader in sustainable economic development.

Photo Credit: ASEAN Secretariat