New Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, a rising political star, said Wednesday he will encourage increased innovation in the country in the fight against climate change.
"Countermeasures against global warming can't work without innovation," the 38-year-old said at a news conference after assuming his first ministerial post in a Cabinet reshuffle. "By dealing with environmental problems, I believe innovations will occur one after another, which will create business opportunities."
To create such a positive cycle, Koizumi called for attracting increased investment to Japan. "I'll fulfill my duty as if I'm not only the environment minister but also the minister in charge of social reforms," he said.