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Japan-Indonesia Forest Conservation Symposium 2026

The Rainforest Action Network (RAN), an environmental NGO based in San Francisco with a branch in Shibuya, Tokyo, is joining forces with the Earth and Human Environment Forum, the Tropical Forest Action Network (JATAN), and the Indonesian NGO Auriga Nusantara to host the Japan-Indonesia Forest Conservation Symposium 2026 on July 22 and 23. This significant event aims to shed light on the ongoing challenges and strategies for protecting Indonesia's tropical forests.

Background to the Symposium

Tropical forests play a pivotal role in maintaining terrestrial biodiversity, supporting around 50 to 80% of the world's flora and fauna despite covering only 7% of Earth's land surface. Indonesia, possessing the third-largest area of tropical forests globally, is known for its rich biodiversity, including many endemic and endangered species. However, the rapid expansion of production in palm oil, paper pulp, timber, and the recent surge in wood pellet production for renewable energy in Japan have led to significant deforestation and adverse impacts on ecosystems.

As one of the key consumer countries for Indonesian forest commodities, Japan’s corporate and investment practices significantly influence forest conservation efforts in the region. This symposium will bring together researchers and NGOs to share the latest findings on deforestation linked to various commodities, such as paper pulp, palm oil, and biomass, and discuss their implications for local communities.

Symposium Structure

With a focus on multi-stakeholder dialogue, the event will examine strategies for achieving zero deforestation in supply chains. Participants will consist of Japanese companies committed to sustainable practices, investors engaged in due diligence, and advocates for a nature-positive future. This is a unique opportunity for those interested in Indonesia’s forest conservation, biodiversity preservation, sustainable investment, and corporate social responsibility to interact directly with leading researchers, experts, and forward-thinking business representatives.

Event Details

• - Location: Tokyo Women’s Plaza Hall (5-53-67 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
• - Dates: July 22 (Wednesday) and July 23 (Thursday) from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. A networking session is scheduled for 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM.
• - Format: Hybrid, both in-person and online.
• - Participation fee: Free (pre-registration required).
• - More information and registration: Japan-Indonesia Forest Symposium

Program Highlights

Day 1 - July 22 (Tentative Schedule)

Morning Session (10:00 - 13:15)

Keynote Speech: 'Why is Deforestation Continuing in Indonesia?' by Saurlin P. Siagian, member of the Indonesian National Human Rights Commission.

Session 1: Discussion on paper pulp production in Indonesia, presenting the environmental issues arising from deforestation, peatland development, and human rights violations involving indigenous communities. The session will highlight collaborative efforts from Japanese NGOs and success stories from companies committed to responsible sourcing.

Moderated by: Toyoyuki Kawakami (Rainforest Action Network)
Comments by: Bambang Hero Saharjo (Bogor Agricultural University)
Speakers include: Aidil Fitri (HaKI), Takashi Ota (Ajinomoto Co., Inc.).

Afternoon Session (14:30 - 17:00)

Session 2: Focus on palm oil—Indonesia's position as the world's largest producer and the environmental consequences of palm oil plantation development. This session will cover responsible sourcing initiatives from user companies.

Moderated by: Daisuke Naito (Kyoto University)
Comments by: Hidemi Tomita (Sustainability Management Institute)
Speakers include: Minoru Matsubara (Resona Asset Management), and others.

Day 2 - July 23 (Tentative Schedule)

Morning Session (10:00 - 12:30)

Session 3: Addressing biomass production especially in renewable energy, including critiques of recent policies that have led to significant forest loss. Participants will discuss sustainable biomass energy and its compatibility with forest conservation.

Moderated by: Miyuki Tomari (Biomass Industry Society Network).
Speakers include: Tatsuya Okazaki (Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group) and representatives from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Afternoon Session (14:00 - 17:00)

Session 4: Exploring conservation efforts and successful case studies of collaborative planning between companies, local administration, and communities in Indonesia.

Moderated by: Tetsuji Ida (Kyodo News)
Participants will engage in discussions on sustainable procurement practices that support forest conservation.

Networking Opportunity

Each day will conclude with a networking session, providing attendees the chance to engage in discussions, exchange business cards, and connect with speakers.

This symposium serves as a vital platform for fostering dialogues that can significantly impact Indonesia's forest conservation and biodiversity efforts.