SoftBank Corp

Lobbying Transparency and Governance

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Direct Lobbying Transparency
Overall Assessment Comment Score
Comprehensive SoftBank Corp. has demonstrated a comprehensive level of transparency regarding its climate lobbying activities. The company has clearly named specific climate policies it has engaged with, such as the "Energy Conservation Act" and the "Act on Promotion of Global Warming Countermeasures," and has provided details about its focus on "carbon pricing, taxes, and subsidies" and "subsidies on infrastructure." It has also disclosed the geography and region of engagement as "National" and "Japan," respectively, showcasing a high degree of clarity in its policy disclosures. Regarding lobbying mechanisms, SoftBank has detailed its structured approach, including direct lobbying efforts such as making "recommendations to the Ministry of the Environment and relevant ministries" and engaging "the Government from the Chief ESG Officer and other competent officers." The company also disclosed participation in "expert meetings and basic policy subcommittees organized by relevant government ministries" and collaborations with trade associations like the Telecommunications Carriers Association (TCA) and the GSMA, identifying both mechanisms and targets such as the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Furthermore, SoftBank has been explicit about the policy outcomes it seeks, including achieving "carbon neutrality by 2050," advocating for "proactive fiscal expenditures" and the "introduction of carbon pricing," and improving power efficiency in the telecommunications industry. These disclosures reflect clear articulation of desired policy changes and measurable outcomes, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to climate lobbying transparency. 4
Lobbying Governance
Overall Assessment Comment Score
Strong SoftBank Corp. demonstrates a strong governance process for climate lobbying alignment, with clear oversight structures and monitoring mechanisms in place. The company has established the ESG Committee as an advisory body to the Board of Directors, with the President and CEO serving as the Chief ESG Officer, holding "ultimate responsibility for the overall sustainability activities, including climate change mitigation, under the supervision of the Board of Directors." Furthermore, "significant matters are reported to the Board of Directors," ensuring high-level oversight. The company monitors and evaluates lobbying activities conducted through external organizations, including trade associations, under the responsibility of the Executive Officer in Charge of ESG and the General Manager of the ESG Promotion Office. This includes "evaluation and management to ensure that they align with the principles of the Paris Agreement." SoftBank also states that it "regularly checks the consistency of our climate change policy/measures with those of our member organizations" and takes corrective actions if misalignments are identified, including the possibility of withdrawing from organizations with significantly inadequate policies. These measures indicate a defined governance process with monitoring mechanisms and responsible parties overseeing climate lobbying alignment. 3