Watami Becomes Japan's First Farm to be Certified as Nature Coexistence Site
In March 2026, Watami Co., Ltd., based in Ota City, Tokyo, made landmark strides in environmental preservation by securing the Ministry of the Environment's certification for its Bihoro-Toge Ranch, located in Bihoro Town, Abashiri County, Hokkaido. This certification designates the ranch as Japan's first 'Nature Coexistence Site' under the Japanese Biodiversity Act, recognizing effective land conservation measures outside protected areas as part of the international '30by30' goal to conserve over 30% of terrestrial and marine areas by 2030.
The contest for the status of a 'Nature Coexistence Site' is reserved for privately managed areas such as forests and green spaces where biodiversity is being effectively protected through corporate efforts. It is a critical measure towards achieving the international conservation goals set for 2030. Upon being recognized, the designated area is registered in the International Database as an OECM (Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures). Watami aims to lead initiatives that promote nature-positive practices through its business activities, establishing a sustainable environment for local communities.
Nestled in the rich natural setting of the Okhotsk region in Hokkaido, Bihoro-Toge Ranch practices pastoral dairy farming, which focuses on unleashing the inherent potential of cows. The ranch raises grass-fed cattle nourished primarily by pasture, aligning with the local climate and natural cycles to ensure sustainable dairy farming. Notably, the ranch avoids the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers, fostering an organic pasture environment that mitigates environmental impacts on soil, groundwater, and rivers while contributing to the preservation of healthy ecosystems.
Recent studies conducted by the Regional Environmental Planning Corporation have revealed that due to maintained pristine water quality in the natural forest streams, rare species such as the Japanese crayfish thrive. Moreover, the expansive organic pasture acts as a vital habitat for endangered bird species like the Eurasian Curlew. Preserving the interconnectedness of life from forests to waterways and grasslands, Watami is committed to promoting organic dairy practices that are beneficial for humans, cattle, and wildlife alike.
The company intends to use the certification obtained at Bihoro-Toge Ranch as a model case to expand its efforts towards biodiversity-friendly, circular agriculture and dairy practices at all 'Watami Farm' locations nationwide. Their aim is to create pioneering examples of nature-positive initiatives in primary industries and accelerate their commitment to building sustainable food infrastructures that ensure a rich natural environment is passed down to future generations.
Watami Co., Ltd. was founded in May 1986 and is headquartered at 1-1-3 Haneda, Ota City, Tokyo. Under the leadership of President and CEO Mikio Watanabe, the company focuses on providing diverse services, including domestic and overseas restaurants, meal delivery, agriculture, environmental efforts, and human resource services.
For more about Watami's sustainable efforts, visit Watami CSR.
Understanding Nature Coexistence Sites
The contest for the status of a 'Nature Coexistence Site' is reserved for privately managed areas such as forests and green spaces where biodiversity is being effectively protected through corporate efforts. It is a critical measure towards achieving the international conservation goals set for 2030. Upon being recognized, the designated area is registered in the International Database as an OECM (Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures). Watami aims to lead initiatives that promote nature-positive practices through its business activities, establishing a sustainable environment for local communities.
Biodiversity at Bihoro-Toge Ranch
Nestled in the rich natural setting of the Okhotsk region in Hokkaido, Bihoro-Toge Ranch practices pastoral dairy farming, which focuses on unleashing the inherent potential of cows. The ranch raises grass-fed cattle nourished primarily by pasture, aligning with the local climate and natural cycles to ensure sustainable dairy farming. Notably, the ranch avoids the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers, fostering an organic pasture environment that mitigates environmental impacts on soil, groundwater, and rivers while contributing to the preservation of healthy ecosystems.
Recent studies conducted by the Regional Environmental Planning Corporation have revealed that due to maintained pristine water quality in the natural forest streams, rare species such as the Japanese crayfish thrive. Moreover, the expansive organic pasture acts as a vital habitat for endangered bird species like the Eurasian Curlew. Preserving the interconnectedness of life from forests to waterways and grasslands, Watami is committed to promoting organic dairy practices that are beneficial for humans, cattle, and wildlife alike.
Future Prospects
The company intends to use the certification obtained at Bihoro-Toge Ranch as a model case to expand its efforts towards biodiversity-friendly, circular agriculture and dairy practices at all 'Watami Farm' locations nationwide. Their aim is to create pioneering examples of nature-positive initiatives in primary industries and accelerate their commitment to building sustainable food infrastructures that ensure a rich natural environment is passed down to future generations.
About Watami Co., Ltd.
Watami Co., Ltd. was founded in May 1986 and is headquartered at 1-1-3 Haneda, Ota City, Tokyo. Under the leadership of President and CEO Mikio Watanabe, the company focuses on providing diverse services, including domestic and overseas restaurants, meal delivery, agriculture, environmental efforts, and human resource services.
For more about Watami's sustainable efforts, visit Watami CSR.
Topics Environment）
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