#Japan #Tokyo #Sustainable Farming #AGRIKO FARM #Tokyo Eco Agriculture

The First Tokyo Agricultural Forum 2025

Tokyo recently embarked on an exciting journey towards sustainable agriculture with the inaugural Tokyo Agricultural Forum 2025. This forum brought together producers and consumers to engage in meaningful discussions about eco-friendly farming practices and ethical consumption. The event featured speeches, panel discussions, and an exhibition showcasing various initiatives in sustainable agriculture and sales of eco-friendly agricultural products.

Opening Remarks by Dignitaries

The forum kicked off with an opening address by Akiko Matsumoto, the Vice Governor of Tokyo. She emphasized the importance of reducing synthetic pesticides and introduced the Tokyo Eco Agricultural Products certification system aimed at promoting sustainable farming. Matsumoto revealed plans for a promotional sales hub for these eco-products set to open in downtown Tokyo this autumn. She also highlighted the national "Green Certification" initiative aimed at promoting environmentally conscious farming.

Following her remarks, Hiroshi Sasakawa, the Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, addressed the audience. He expressed the hope that the forum would serve as a platform to share advanced practices in eco-friendly agriculture, not just within Tokyo but across the nation, influencing agricultural and consumer practices everywhere.

Keynote Speaker: Ryoko Kobayashi

The keynote speech was delivered by Ryoko Kobayashi, an actress and entrepreneur and the representative of AGRIKO, a circular agricultural farm focused on sustainability. Her talk titled "Cultivating the Future We Nurture in Tokyo: The Power of Eco-Friendly Agriculture and Urban Farming" resonated with attendees. Kobayashi shared her personal experiences that underscored the significance of agriculture and food in her life. She discussed the joys and challenges of urban farming and how individuals can contribute to its sustainability.

In an engaging manner, she posed questions to the audience about their awareness of urban agriculture and eco-products, creating a sense of community and interaction in the hall.

Panel Discussion: Connecting Farming, Distribution, and Consumption

A lively panel discussion themed "Eco-Friendly Agriculture Creating an Ethical Tokyo" followed, involving farmers, chefs, distribution experts, and students sharing their initiatives. Each panelist spoke about their passion for agriculture and the challenges faced in promoting eco-friendly practices. They exchanged views on the significance of environmental conservation-based agriculture and the roles each individual can play in spreading awareness.

The panel emphasized that the proximity between producers and consumers is a key feature of urban farming. The audience learned how dedicated growers and supportive consumers could work together to create a sustainable cycle of urban agriculture in Tokyo.

Practical Seminar on Organic Farming

A practical seminar titled "Practical Steps for Tomorrow's Agriculture" showcased organic farming efforts from Ogawa Town, Saitama Prefecture. Participants attentively listened to the presentation on self-sufficient energy practices without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. The enthusiasm and engagement of the audience highlighted the interest in sustainable agriculture.

Successful Exhibition & Sales Booths

The forum also hosted an exhibition featuring various organizations and their eco-friendly practices. There was a significant focus on initiatives like the Tokyo Eco Agricultural Products Certification System and the New Tokyo GAP Certification System. These initiatives aim tolower environmental impact while ensuring food safety.

The presentations included insights from the Kanto Regional Agricultural Administration Office and displays from the JA Tokyo group featuring harmonious agricultural products and Edo-Tokyo vegetables. The booths representing Gunma, Tochigi, Ibaraki, Saitama, and Chiba prefectures attracted large crowds, reflecting the public's growing interest in sustainable agricultural practices.

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In summary, the Tokyo Agricultural Forum 2025 marks a pioneering effort to champion sustainable urban agriculture and ethical consumption, creating a stronger bond between producers and consumers in Tokyo.