#Japan #Tokyo #Tokyu Group #Social Contribution #Environmental Award

Celebrating Commitment to Sustainability: The 8th Tokyu Group Environmental and Social Contribution Awards

The Tokyu Group has recently concluded its 8th Environmental and Social Contribution Awards, showcasing remarkable initiatives submitted by its 37 companies and a total of 96 entries. With a commitment to fostering community and environmental harmony under the motto "Towards a Beautiful Era," the group operates across various sectors including transportation, real estate, and hotel services.

This award was established to promote and recognize excellent undertakings from the Tokyu Group's companies, integrating the previously separate Environmental Award and Brand Award initiated in 2008. The aim is to enhance the consciousness of both employees and the public regarding environmental and social contributions through annual recognition of exceptional efforts.

Notable Winners of the 8th Awards

Among the submissions, two standout initiatives received the prestigious Environmental and Social Contribution Award (Grand Prize). They are:

1. Marine and Forest Conservation in Palau’s Resort Business
Companies: Tokyu Land Corporation, Tokyu Group, Seikatsu Explus, Pacific Islands Development Corporation
Overview: The Pacific Resort Palau, a beach resort hotel, embraces a philosophy of sustainable development by not building taller than the local palm trees and ensuring the project benefits local communities. Since its opening in 1984, it has implemented various conservation efforts, including the protection of existing forest areas and transplanting corals to restore beaches. Notably, the resort has also released endangered giant clams into local waters, achieving designation as a marine protected area in 2002. This approach not only reflects environmental stewardship but also promotes local employment and heritage preservation.

Comments from Award Winner:
"For over 40 years, we have operated under the simple yet powerful concept of not building higher than a palm tree. We believe preserving biodiversity on our private beach and surrounding ecosystems is our natural duty. We hope our efforts inspire environmental awareness worldwide."

2. Hiring Foreign Bus Drivers
Company: Tokyu Bus Corporation
Overview: In a bold move towards diversity and inclusion, Tokyu Bus has prioritized the hiring of foreign bus drivers to address workforce shortages. Significant challenges regarding cultural and linguistic adaptation were met with proactive training and support, leading to successful solo driving operations starting this spring. Engaging media to highlight the stories of these drivers has also fostered a welcoming environment among local passengers.

Comments from Award Winner:
"To combat the pressing labor shortages in Japan's public transport, we have taken the lead in implementing this initiative. We are committed to ensuring that all employees, regardless of nationality, can thrive in a diverse workplace that delivers safe and efficient transportation services."

Other Recognitions

Additionally, the awards featured three projects each in the Environmental and Social Contribution categories, with a total of 15 accolades presented. Notable environmental initiatives included:

• - Green UNDER GROUND Project: The renovation of the Komazawa University Station aims to enhance safety and promote sustainable urban development.
• - Blue Burger Project: An innovative approach blending marine conservation with culinary branding to restore coastal ecosystems in Chiba Prefecture.
• - Special Initiative with Tokyo Green Biz: Celebrating the 100th anniversary of Setagaya Line by creating awareness on environmental issues through special trains.

Conclusion

The Tokyu Group continues to champion initiatives that fuse environmental consciousness with social responsibility, striving to build a sustainable future while cultivating these critical values among its numerous stakeholders. With more than 1,000 submissions since the award's inception, the group's ongoing commitment to these efforts is clear. Together, they work towards a holistic approach to community engagement and environmental stewardship.