Pirikaneppu Forest Earns Certification as Nature Coexistence Site by Japan's Ministry of the Environment

Certification of Pirikaneppu Forest as a Nature Coexistence Site

In a significant achievement for environmental conservation, the "Pirikaneppu Forest" has recently been recognized as a "Nature Coexistence Site" by Japan's Ministry of the Environment. This designation follows extensive technical support provided by Pacific Consultants Co., Ltd. (Headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo), under the leadership of President and Executive Officer, Osamu Ohmoto.

Role of Pacific Consultants in the Certification Process

Pacific Consultants played a crucial role in obtaining this certification by conducting necessary surveys, assisting with the preparation of application documents, and providing support during the review meetings. This comprehensive support exemplifies the company's commitment to enhancing biodiversity through collaborative efforts with various organizations.

With a strong track record in environmental assessment and policy support regarding green infrastructure and biodiversity, Pacific Consultants is dedicated to providing solutions that utilize nature capital assets owned by companies. Their mission aligns with addressing regional issues while simultaneously working towards carbon neutrality and implementing nature-positive strategies.

Understanding the Nature Coexistence Site

Established under the regional biodiversity enhancement law, the Nature Coexistence Site designation is aimed at recognizing areas where private and community initiatives contribute to biodiversity conservation. First introduced in fiscal year 2023, the law was formalized in April 2025, allowing companies, NGOs, local governments, and community groups to receive official recognition for their biodiversity preservation efforts if their plans gain approval from the national government.

This mechanism is essential for achieving the “Nature Positive” goal, which seeks to halt and reverse biodiversity loss, as well as the global “30by30” target aimed at protecting over 30% of land and marine ecosystems by 2030.

Overview of Pirikaneppu Forest

The Pirikaneppu Forest is located in Akankacho, Kushiro City, Hokkaido, and is owned by Keisuke Saito, head of the Raptor Medicine Research Institute. This private forest is part of the Akkon Mashu National Park, featuring a mixed forest of Tokachi fir and Ezo spruce. The site's objective is to maintain this forest type while also promoting the transformation of artificial forests into mixed forests, thereby enhancing habitats for rare regional plants and animals.

The ecosystem here is diverse, boasting various environments that house 68 species of plants from 40 different families, as discovered during a survey conducted in the summer of 2019. Common mammals like the Ezo deer and Ezo squirrel, as well as amphibians such as the Ezo red frog, inhabit the area. Notably, the rare black woodpecker has also been observed here. Due to these efforts, the forest has been classified as a “maintenance type,” recognizing ongoing activities to sustain its rich biodiversity.

The Certification Ceremony

On April 28, 2026, a certification ceremony was held at the Kushiro Natural Environment Office, marking this forest as the first project in Kushiro. Key attendees included representatives from the Raptor Medicine Research Institute, the Mayor of Kushiro, and the Deputy Director of the Hokkaido Kushiro General Promotion Bureau. Senior Advisor Hiroyuki Yamada from Pacific Consultants also participated in this momentous event, celebrating the recognition that underscores the importance of preserving natural habitats in Japan.

About Pacific Consultants

Since its founding in 1951, Pacific Consultants has established itself as a leading construction consulting firm, deeply involved in the planning, research, design, construction supervision, and maintenance of various social infrastructure projects including urban development, railways, and roads. With the vision of producing a sustainable future, the company continues to offer innovative value to society, striving to create a world where everyone can live safely.

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