Carbon reduction policies of Japanese Olympic sports

This commentary examines carbon emission reduction policies among Japanese Olympic sports organisations in the context of growing expectations for climate action. Using document analysis, publicly available reports and strategic plans from 42 national Olympic sports organisations were reviewed and classified according to the depth of their decarbonisation commitments. Only six organisations explicitly address carbon emission reduction, with just two presenting measurable targets and implementation plans. Despite the climate-related achievements of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, these lessons have not been institutionalised across national sports governance. The analysis highlights persistent legacy, knowledge-transfer, and research–practice gaps, particularly regarding travel-related emissions. Strengthening policy alignment, institutional capacity, and sport tourism perspectives is essential for advancing climate action within Japan's Olympic sports sector.