InsideJapan News Network

Japan's chief advisory committee on cutting greenhouse gas emissions has announced that increased nuclear electricity generation will significantly contribute to the cause.

Cool Earth 50 was established by the ministry of economic trade and industry and aims to reduce carbon emissions in Japan by 50 per cent by 2050, according to World Nuclear News.

The body has reportedly concluded that electricity sourced from nuclear generation may contribute as much as 12 per cent to this total.

Announcing Cool Earth 50's establishment in May 2007, then-prime minister Shinzo Abe commented: "By creating a low carbon society we aim to realise a society where high quality of life and reduction of carbon dioxide emissions are achieved at the same time."

Japan is one of 16 countries that currently generates over a quarter of its electricity supply from nuclear generation.