#Japan #Yachiyo Engineering #Toyama #Nature Positive #Kurobe River

Yachiyo Engineering's Role in the Kurobe River Nature Positive Project

Yachiyo Engineering Co., Ltd., based in Taito, Tokyo, is actively contributing to the Kurobe River Nature Positive Project, which aims to promote sustainable development and enhance biodiversity in this unique region of Japan. This initiative, which commenced in April 2025, represents the first attempt nationwide to create a 'Nature Positive' declaration focused on the Kurobe River basin in Toyama Prefecture.

Recently, the project was selected for the Ministry of the Environment’s 'FY2025 Nature Positive Regional Development Support Model Project,' showcasing its significance in promoting a landscape approach to environmental management in the region.

What Does 'Nature Positive' Mean?

The term 'Nature Positive' refers to an international goal aimed at halting biodiversity loss and driving recovery efforts. Traditional environmental protection strategies focused on minimizing damage to nature, often striving for a 'zero' impact. However, with the severity of global environmental degradation becoming increasingly apparent, there has been a shift towards a proactive approach. This new paradigm seeks to transform damaged ecosystems into 'positive' states. The concept was adopted at the 2022 Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15) and is slated for achievement by 2030. It calls for action from businesses, governments, and individuals alike to restore natural capital through their economic activities and lifestyles.

Overview of the FY2025 Nature Positive Regional Development Support Model Project

In recent times, there has been a growing importance placed on balancing the sustainable utilization of natural capital with addressing regional challenges. This project supports businesses in realizing goals that contribute to Nature Positive outcomes, which, in turn, enhances corporate value while simultaneously addressing local issues. By collaborating with various local stakeholders and integrating existing plans and data, the project aims to create a model for Nature Positive community development through practical landscape approaches.

For further details on this initiative, feel free to check the official announcement by the Ministry of the Environment here.

About the Kurobe River Nature Positive Project

The Kurobe River Nature Positive Project targets the entire basin of the Kurobe River flowing through Toyama Prefecture, aiming for a harmonious coexistence between nature and humans. This initiative aims to unify local stakeholders, including municipalities, businesses, research institutions, NGOs, and residents, under the 'Nature Positive Declaration' to be issued, marking a pioneering effort in the country.

Key activities of the project include:

• - Comprehensive natural capital assessment and preservation based on a landscape approach.
• - Ecosystem surveys using scientific methods, like environmental DNA analysis.
• - Sustainable community building leveraging local culture and resources.
• - Support for Nature Positive management and compliance with TNFD disclosure.

The overarching objective is to enhance the quality of life and regional economy while safeguarding the Kurobe River's rich natural environment and water culture. The project aspires to establish a model for 'prospering alongside nature' with all stakeholders working cohesively.

Yachiyo Engineering, through its extensive expertise and experience in the field of natural environment, aims to contribute to the sustainable development of the Kurobe River and its surrounding community.

Comments from Stakeholders Involved

Professor Kaori Fujita, Tohoku University

As the Deputy Director of the Nature Positive Development Society at Tohoku University, Professor Fujita notes, “The Kurobe River basin is home to numerous stakeholders who depend on the blessings of nature. It offers a promising environment to advance a landscape approach towards achieving Nature Positive goals, and I look forward to advancements in observational and analytical techniques to track the health of this rich natural landscape.”

Hiroto Yoshida, Manager of Sustainability Services at Yachiyo Engineering

Mr. Yoshida emphasizes the increasing significance of corporate roles in fostering sustainable community development. Protecting the natural capital of the Kurobe River while elevating community values is a responsibility towards the future. He assures that this selection will allow the company to leverage its expertise and practical skills in collaboration with local partners to realize the objectives of the Nature Positive initiative.

What is Sustainability Navi?

Sustainability Navi provides comprehensive solutions for corporate sustainability issues. Aimed at addressing challenges related to climate change, water risks, biodiversity, and resource circulation, the service empowers organizations through research, assessment, strategy development, and transparency in information disclosure. Moreover, it aids in brand-building based on research results, as well as facilitating collaboration among enterprises, communities, and governments, all tailored to meet specific challenges and needs.

For more details, visit: Sustainability Navi.