Launch of SPS Research Group to Promote Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems

SPS Research Group Launch: Enhancing Sustainability in Agriculture and Food

In June 2025, the SPS Research Group will be initiated by the Distribution Economics Institute and MyFarm Co., aiming to establish a sustainable framework for evaluating food and agriculture. The primary goal is to create visibility in sustainability and allow for societal assessment through collaboration among farmers, food manufacturers, and retailers.

Background of the Research Group Launch

As the world focuses more on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and minimizing food waste, sustainable practices have become paramount. However, there seems to be a lack of unified assessment standards within various certification systems and voluntary corporate initiatives, making it challenging for consumers to identify low-impact products. A recent survey by the Boston Consulting Group revealed that the main reason consumers hesitate to purchase environmentally friendly products is the lack of clarity regarding which items have lower environmental impacts.

Food sustainability is significant for the future of our planet and public health; however, the various initiatives lack cohesion and clarity. In response, the SPS Research Group will explore actionable strategies for stakeholders and develop methods for disclosing sustainability-related information.

The ultimate aim is to design a "Quality Management System (PDCA)" where environmental and social value serve as sources for profit, thereby integrating sustainable practices into daily operations. This system, known as the Sustainable Produce System (SPS), will accommodate the entire food supply chain, regardless of its scale, and help curb greenwashing. It will also be compatible with existing certification systems like GAP, Organic JAS, and ISO 14000.

Future Perspectives Post-Research Group

After the research group’s conclusion, the Sustainable Produce System (SPS) will continue to be utilized as a comprehensive framework for managing sustainable values. This will aim to foster consumer trust and facilitate companies' alignment with sustainability disclosures and ESG investments, further contributing to the development of the sustainable food market.

Upcoming Seminar: Creating a Sustainable Food Market

In conjunction with the launch of the SPS Research Group, a seminar titled "Creating a Sustainable Food Market" will be held. This event, targeting businesses, farmers, and distribution companies, will foster dialogue about the formation of a market that promotes sustainability visibility and value. Workshops will also deepen understanding regarding greenwashing trends.

Seminar Details

- Date: June 26, 2025
- Time: 13:30 - 16:30
- Format: Hybrid (Physical Meeting + Live Stream)

- Location: Vision Center Ichigaya, Tokyo
- Participation: Register via the provided URL after submitting necessary details.

Program Outline

- 13:30 - 14:00: Introduction to Japan’s Sustainable Food Market: Current Status and Challenges
- 14:00 - 14:30: Steps for the Sustainable Food Market Creation Project
- 14:30 - 15:30: Open Forum for Discussion on Sustainable Initiatives
- 15:30 - 15:45: Break
- 15:45 - 16:25: Workshop on Greenwashing Evaluation Simulation

Participation Fee: Free

Registration Information

To participate, please fill out the registration form linked on our seminar page: Seminar Registration

Organizers

The seminar is hosted by the Distribution Economics Institute and MyFarm Co., both dedicated to advancing research and practices that contribute to sustainable agriculture and food systems.