#Sustainability #Japan #Tokyo #TNFD #Oberlin University

Oberlin University Launches TNFD Course

Oberlin University is set to enhance the capabilities of sustainability practitioners with the launch of its ESG/Sustainability Practitioner Training Program, featuring a new course focused on biodiversity and business. Starting this September, the program is designed to prepare companies for the upcoming TNFD (Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures) requirements. As global concerns about climate change continue to escalate, understanding and addressing biodiversity and natural capital is becoming crucial for listed companies, marking this course as a vital opportunity for learning.

Course Overview

The TNFD course will consist of a series of seven sessions, where participants will delve into the fundamentals of natural capital and progress towards practical TNFD disclosure strategies. The sessions will be held weekly, every Saturday from September to November 2025, running from 14:00 to 15:40 JST (100 minutes each). The program offers an interactive format through live Zoom sessions, ensuring participants can engage directly with instructors and peers. Additionally, sessions will be recorded, providing flexible access for busy professionals who may prefer to review materials at their convenience.

Key Details

• - Duration: September 2025 - November 2025 (7 sessions)
• - Schedule: Saturdays, 14:00 - 15:40 JST
• - Format: Live Zoom classes (interaction encouraged) and in-person Q&A sessions;
• - Archive: Recorded sessions available for all participants
• - Tuition: 100,000 yen for all seven sessions
• - Capacity: 30 participants (first-come, first-served)
• - Enrollment Deadline: August 20, 2025

For further inquiries, an information session will be conducted, and interested individuals can reach out via the registration form provided.

Target Audience

This program is tailored for various stakeholders, including:

• - Corporate sustainability and ESG professionals
• - Practitioners in IR, corporate planning, risk management, and CSR departments
• - Publicly listed companies looking to initiate TNFD compliance
• - Municipalities and financial institutions addressing nature-related risks
• - ESG consultants

Benefits of the Course

This engaging course covers a wide range of essential topics:

• - Comprehensive understanding of natural capital and biodiversity from basic concepts to practical application
• - Insight into the TNFD framework, enhancing overall comprehension
• - Rich variety of corporate case studies to learn from real-world applications
• - Development of skills to evaluate natural-related financial risks, which is crucial for attracting ESG investors
• - Opportunities for Q&A with instructors, both in real-time and online

Unique Aspects of the Course

The program stands out due to its focused approach for practitioners, providing a systematic exploration of TNFD principles. Participants benefit from a hybrid educational format, combining in-person interactions, online lectures, and archived resources. The instructors possess expertise in both academic and business fields, making their insights vital for companies preparing for TNFD disclosures.

Instructor Profiles

Yuya Fukano

An associate professor at Chiba University, Dr. Fukano specializes in ecology and crop science. Hailing from Fukuoka, he completed his studies at the Kyushu University Graduate School of System Life Sciences. Following his tenure at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology and the University of Tokyo, he has been focusing on research aiming for sustainable, environmentally friendly agriculture that balances food production with climate change mitigation and biodiversity. His work encompasses both the study of crops and native wildlife, utilizing various technologies including drones and AI for sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, he explores psychological aspects and marketing related to nature and crops.

Taku Kumazawa

The representative partner at Social Impact Research Corporation, Kumazawa teaches at SBI University and serves as a securities analyst. He oversees the sustainability program at Oberlin University and has an extensive academic background, having completed master’s and doctoral studies at Keio University and Waseda University, respectively. His experience includes significant roles in renowned financial institutions, which led him to establish his own firm in 2010.

Conclusion

The TNFD course at Oberlin University represents an invaluable opportunity for professionals eager to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving field of sustainability. With its comprehensive content and flexible format, participants can effectively prepare for the future of environmental reporting and contribute to their organizations' ESG goals. To sign up for the free information session, follow the link provided here.