#Sustainability #Forest Conservation #J-Credit

The Forest x ACT Challenge 2025: Promoting Corporate Responsibility in Climate Action

The Japanese Forestry Agency has launched a new initiative aimed at encouraging businesses and organizations to participate in forest conservation efforts that contribute to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and enhancing biodiversity. This program, known as the Forest x ACT Challenge 2025, is an evolution of the previous Challenge and invites various stakeholders to showcase their environmental initiatives through sustainable forest management.

Purpose of the Initiative

Japan's landscape is predominantly forested, with approximately two-thirds of the land covered by trees. Proper care and maintenance of these forests not only enhance their capacity to absorb CO2 but also play a crucial role in biodiversity protection—a vital aspect of the ongoing global push towards sustainability. As interest in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investments increases, companies are stepping up their efforts to support forestry-related activities nationwide. It has become increasingly important to mobilize private sector resources and innovations to address climate change and biodiversity conservation as a national movement.

Application Period

The application window for the Forest x ACT Challenge runs from April 21, 2025, to June 30, 2025, at 5 p.m. During this time, organizations can submit their project proposals aimed at sustainable forestry development.

Application Categories

The challenge comprises two main categories:

1. Forest Development Category

Organizations can apply for this category if they have supported or implemented afforestation or maintenance activities between FY2023 and FY2024. Applicants will need to provide:

• - (1) The CO2 absorption amount attributed to the managed forest over one year
• - (2) Details of the forestry management initiatives undertaken

2. J-Credit Category

In this category, businesses may submit reports on forestry-derived J-Credits that they have deactivated during FY2023 and FY2024. Applicants should provide:

• - (1) The amount of deactivated J-Credits (CO2 absorption amount)
• - (2) Information regarding the utilization and impact of the deactivated J-Credits

(Note: Applications in this category must be co-signed by both project implementers and those who deactivated the credits.)

Eligibility for Applications

Eligible applicants include corporations, organizations, individuals, and local governments.

Application Process

To apply, participants must fill out the designated application form available on the Forestry Agency’s website, alongside any required supporting documents. Detailed submission guidelines can be accessed within the application manual on the website.
Website: Forestry Agency Application Site

Awarding Process

The initiative entails a careful selection process for awardees, comprising:

• - A Grand Prize (Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Award) for one exemplary entry from all applicants
• - Excellence Awards (Forestry Agency Commissioner Award) for up to 10% of the total submissions within each category

Winners will be announced on the Forestry Agency's website, highlighting their contributions as