#Japan #Tokyo #CorporateCertificate #AgriculturalImpact

New Certification System to Recognize Corporate Contributions

The Japanese government has announced the initiation of a certification system designed to acknowledge the contributions of corporations to agricultural villages. This program aims to address issues such as population decline and aging in rural areas, which compromise food supply stability and the multifaceted functions of these communities. Starting on October 24, companies can apply for this certification until December 15, with the aim of promoting their contributions through official channels like corporate websites and investor relations materials.

Significance of the Initiative

As agricultural villages face challenges like population decrease and changes in demographic structures, there is an increasing need for diverse stakeholders to mobilize their resources in addressing these concerns. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) recognizes that leveraging corporate resources could significantly contribute to revitalizing these areas. The emphasis on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) principles by major corporations further underlines the importance of this initiative.

MAFF previously compiled the "Guidance for Visualizing Impact on Agricultural Villages" and aims to establish a system that provides official recognition to companies actively engaged in problem-solving initiatives within rural communities. This new certification will serve as a communication tool, allowing businesses to showcase their commitment to enhancing company value and mitigating business risks through positive societal impacts.

Targeted Initiatives for Certification

The certification will focus on projects aimed at maintaining food supply stability, ensuring sustainable development of agricultural and food industries, and preserving livable environments in rural areas. Examples of eligible initiatives include:

• - Promoting side activities that utilize human resources from outside agricultural villages.
• - Enhancing the value of agricultural products through branding efforts.
• - Improving local infrastructure, such as roadside stations, to sustain community functions.

Organizations interested in applying for the certification can find more detailed guidance on the official MAFF website.

Application Process and Schedule

The selection process will adhere to the announced guidelines, evaluating initiatives based on their alignment with specified impact models. Specific requirements and more detailed information regarding applications can also be located on the MAFF website.

The application schedule is as follows:

• - Start of Application: October 24, 2023.
• - Deadline for Applications: December 15, 2023, at 6 PM.
• - Announcement of Certified Initiatives: Expected in March 2025.

Online Information Session

MAFF will hold an online briefing session for potential applicants. Pre-registration is necessary for attendance, however, participation is not obligatory for applying.

• - Info Session Date: October 30, 2023, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM.
• - Registration Deadline: October 30, 2023, by 9:30 AM.

An archive of this briefing will also be made available on the MAFF website shortly after the session.

Conclusion

This new certification system holds the potential to not only elevate the visibility of corporate efforts in rural revitalization but also demonstrates a commitment to addressing critical social issues within agricultural communities. By participating in this initiative, corporations can strengthen their brand while simultaneously contributing to the sustainability and enhancement of rural life in Japan.