Okayama University Launches a Carbon Footprint Reduction Initiative with Local Businesses

A New Era for Sustainability: Okayama University's CO₂ Reduction Initiative

On September 30, 2025, Okayama University, led by President Yasuyuki Nasu, embarked on a collaborative journey to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in partnership with the Okayama Prefectural Association of Commerce and Industry and local businesses. This initiative was formally introduced during a kickoff workshop that emphasized the importance of visualizing CO₂ emissions as a critical step in promoting sustainable practices across the entire supply chain.

The workshop brought together students from Associate Professor Tatsumasa Tenwanji's seminar in the Faculty of Social and Cultural Sciences (Economics) and members from the local Shibamura Group, which engages in various businesses in Kibi Central Town. Their mission during this project is to calculate the carbon footprint (CFP) of products produced and sold by the Shibamura Group, adhering to guidelines set forth by Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry and the Ministry of the Environment.

During the event, Professor Tenwanji provided insights into how calculating the carbon footprint can enhance the value of small to medium-sized enterprises. Participants also engaged in lively discussions to determine which specific products should be targeted for the initial calculations. This collaborative approach emphasizes the need for diverse perspectives when addressing environmental challenges.

Following the workshop, students visited several facilities operated by the Shibamura Group, including the 'Michi no Eki Kayo' roadside station and a blueberry farm and processing facility. Many students expressed their newfound appreciation for the Shibamura Group's role in supporting the local community. One student remarked, “I was fascinated to see the blueberry juice processing steps for the first time. Utilizing the byproducts seems like a promising area for low environmental impact, so I want to include it in our calculations.” This reflects a growing awareness and responsibility among the young participants regarding sustainable practices.

Shibamura Group's CEO, Keizo Shibamura, shared his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “Sustainable management is vital and unavoidable. The carbon footprint challenge with Okayama University presents a valuable opportunity for us. If this collaboration leads to data-backed improvements and fresh perspectives, it will be incredibly rewarding.” The immediate next steps include collecting necessary data to calculate the carbon footprint and aiming to complete this by the end of the year.

The objectives extend beyond internal assessments; the university and its partners aim to leverage their findings to encourage broader efforts for decarbonization in the community. Future aspirations include utilizing carbon credits generated from practices like extended mid-tillage periods in rice cultivation to develop and provide carbon-offset products. This innovative approach seeks to establish a new model for sustainable value creation within the region.

This initiative builds upon activities previously supported by the Ministry of the Environment's project aimed at creating a decarbonization support framework for communities. Through the newly formed