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TOKYO — Three major Japanese companies—Tokyo Gas, Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance, and Nippon Koei—have jointly developed a “Framework for Respecting Human Rights by Companies Involved in Carbon Credit Generation Projects,” aimed at strengthening ethical standards in climate-related initiatives.
Announced in August 2025, the framework outlines evaluation criteria and management systems to ensure that carbon credit projects uphold human rights, particularly in vulnerable communities. The move comes amid growing global scrutiny over the social impact of carbon offset schemes, including reports of forced displacement and unfair labor practices.
Tokyo Gas stated that it will integrate the framework’s criteria into its internal risk assessment protocols for carbon credit procurement. The initiative reflects a broader push within Japan’s corporate sector to align climate action with international human rights standards, including the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
The framework is part of Japan’s expanding role in global carbon markets, where demand for high-quality, ethically sourced credits continues to rise. Rights advocates have welcomed the effort as a step toward greater accountability and transparency in environmental finance.
Excerpts sourced from the Business & Human Rights Resource Centre.
Steps-towards-decarbonization Picture-by-Bartz-Stockmar
