Japan's Port Decarbonization Certification Goes Global
Overview
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, together with the International Cargo Handling Co-ordination Association (ICHCA), has published an international version of the guidelines for CNP Certification, which evaluates decarbonization efforts at container terminals. The guidelines set out the certification framework and assessment criteria. By raising international awareness and encouraging use at overseas ports, the ministry aims to promote the international dissemination of knowledge on decarbonization in Japan's port sector.
Key points
- The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and ICHCA published the international guidelines for CNP Certification.
- The certification objectively assesses container terminal initiatives across multiple levels.
- The ministry plans to expand knowledge of port decarbonization internationally by raising awareness and encouraging overseas use.
Overview
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism promotes the development of Carbon Neutral Ports (CNPs), which involves upgrading port functions with decarbonization in mind and establishing facilities to receive hydrogen, ammonia, and other fuels.
CNP Certification for container terminals makes the implementation status of decarbonization initiatives visible and operates as one measure to promote the development of CNPs.
Impact
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism stated that it would raise international awareness of CNP Certification and promote its use at overseas ports, thereby appropriately assessing decarbonization efforts at Japan's ports and promoting the international dissemination of knowledge on decarbonization in the port sector.
Details
The certification objectively assesses the implementation status of decarbonization initiatives at container terminals across multiple levels, from Level 1 to Level 5. The international guidelines set out the CNP Certification framework and assessment criteria.
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism published the guidelines on October 1, 2026, in collaboration with the International Cargo Handling Co-ordination Association (ICHCA). ICHCA is an international organization that aims to improve the efficiency, economy, safety, hygiene, and environmental compatibility of cargo handling and transportation. It shares information and develops various guidelines, which are consulted around the world.