#Japan #environmental conservation #Hokkaido #Seven Eleven #Kiritappu Wetland

Seventh Eleven Foundation's 10th Kiritappu Forest Activity

On June 28, 2023, the Seventh Eleven Foundation, part of Seven Eleven Japan Co., Ltd., centered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, conducted its 10th "Kiritappu Seven Forest" activity in Hokkaido. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to foster community engagement and environmental sustainability.

Established in 1993, the Seventh Eleven Foundation aims to promote social contribution activities focused on environmental themes. The project, which encompasses the creation of "Seven Forests and Seven Marine Forests," collaborates with local residents, NGOs, and governmental bodies. The goal is to cultivate forests that are cherished and supported by the community, ensuring their preservation for future generations. Through these actions, the foundation actively contributes to achieving a decarbonized society and the preservation of biodiversity.

Foundation Overview

• - Name: Seventh Eleven Foundation
• - Chairman: Toshio Ohta (owner of the Seven Eleven Fujiyoshida Ohimesaka-dori store)
• - Objective: Engaging in social contribution activities focused on the environment
• - Activities: Support for community environmental efforts, nature conservation, disaster recovery, and public relations
• - Funding: Donations collected at Seven Eleven stores, contributions from Seven Eleven Japan Co., Ltd., corporations, organizations, and individuals
• - Established: November 20, 1993
• - Foundation Established: March 1, 2010

Creating "Seven Forests and Seven Marine Forests"

Since 2006, the foundation has been advancing a comprehensive community-based forest-building initiative, known as "Seven Forests," aimed at ensuring that Japan's beautiful and diverse ecosystems are preserved for the next generations. By integrating efforts from various stakeholders, including citizens, industry, and academia, the foundation focuses on long-term strategies that nurture the environment beloved by local residents. To date, it has established 31 forest sites (12 of which are completed), covering an area of 1,787.9 hectares, with aims for continued growth and engagement until FY2024.

Details of the 10th Kiritappu Wetland Activity

• - Purpose: Conservation activities aimed at passing down the rich ecosystem of the wetland to future generations.
• - Theme: Connecting forests, wetlands, rivers, and seas
• - Location: Hokkaido, Akkeshi District, Hamana Town, Biwase 60
• - Agreement: Established between the certified non-profit organization Kiritappu National Trust and the Seventh Eleven Foundation, effective from September 2018 until September 2028 (renewable).
• - Date of Activity: June 28, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM
• - Activities Included: (1) Tree planting (2) Installing protective nets to counter wildlife damage

The Kiritappu Wetland was recognized as a registered wetland during the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, held in Kushiro City in June 1993. Renowned for its seasonal beauty, the wetland transforms through the year, showcasing vibrant greenery as snow melts and a plethora of flowers during summer and autumn, earning it the title of the "flower wetland." During winter, it becomes a snowy haven, drawing unique birds like the Japanese crane and the Steller's sea eagle.

During the recent activities at Kiritappu Forest, participants engaged in tree planting and the establishment of protective covers. The previously planted saplings showed a remarkable survival rate of approximately 80%, much to the joy and surprise of the volunteers. Participants commented on the thriving conditions, expressing astonishment at the growth seen since their last visit. They also removed dead saplings and planted 150 new ones, including broadleaf trees like birch, Judas tree, maple, cherry, and coniferous species such as the Tohoku fir, with particular emphasis on protecting species favored by the Ezo deer.

Though the activity took place on a steep and uneven terrain, participants contributed enthusiastically, completing their tasks ahead of schedule. Working in nature presented challenges, but participants found the experience refreshing, surrounded by the scents of the trees and the gentle breeze.

Nurturing forests contributes to protecting the wetlands, rivers, and seas. Given the Kiritappu Wetland's rich ecosystems, the foundation hopes its initiatives will safeguard this vital environment for the future. Moving ahead, the foundation will continue to strengthen its connection with the natural world through forest and marine initiatives, committing to sustainable environmental efforts.