#Japan #carbon footprint #Okayama #Okayama University #Kibidango

Okayama University's Initiative Towards Sustainability: The Carbon Footprint Activity Report Meeting

On January 19, 2026, Okayama University held a vital event titled the "Carbon Footprint Activity Report Meeting" at the Tsushima Campus. The gathering focused on two major initiatives: the carbon footprint assessment project for the local delicacy, Kibidango, and the 'Carbon Footprint Challenge' led by students from the Faculty of Economics in collaboration with local businesses.

The meeting kicked off with an opening address by Professor Jōshin Murai, the Dean of the Faculty of Economics. Following this, the first part of the event showcased the outcomes of the Kibidango Carbon Footprint Verification. The Director of the President's Office at Kōeidō Co., Ltd., Mr. Yūki Konishi, provided insights into the project's background and the company's profile. Esteemed risk consultant Yoshizumi Asai, from MS&AD InterRisk Research & Consulting, detailed the carbon footprint assessment results and the collaborative research framework. The students from the Tenwajiya Laboratory also presented findings from their consumer awareness surveys, followed by an engaging Q&A session.

In the second segment titled "Economic Faculty's Carbon Footprint Challenge," students shared practical learning outcomes from their engagement with local enterprises. Mr. Keisuke Shibamura, the Executive Director of the Shibamura Group, explained the background of their initiative, focusing on calculating the carbon footprint of blueberry juice and puffed rice. The students articulated their methodologies, emphasizing the importance of primary data collection from manufacturing processes, including energy consumption and sourcing paths. They also addressed the potential applications of J-credits in the context of their projects, facilitated by Mr. Shunya Takada from Chuden Environmental Technos.

Following the presentations, a lively panel discussion facilitated by Associate Professor Tatsuya Tenwaji took place. Participating students and representatives from the collaborating companies shared passionate exchanges based on their experiences and practical insights. Discussions highlighted motivations for employees due to media exposure and the stimulating impact of considering future sustainability concerns. However, challenges in data collection processes were also candidly addressed.

To conclude, Mr. Shida from the Okayama Prefectural Federation of Societies delivered closing remarks. The event wrapped up with a networking session at the J-Terrace Café, fostering further interaction among attendees.

Okayama University continues to enhance students' environmental literacy by actively engaging with local companies and support organizations. The university aims to leverage its resources to contribute to regional decarbonization and sustainable development initiatives, aligning with the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs).

In summary, the successful Carbon Footprint Activity Report Meeting was a milestone event that brought together academia and industry, highlighting the university’s commitment to sustainability and community collaboration. As Okayama University prepares for future challenges, its focus on creating impactful partnerships with various stakeholders remains steadfast, paving the way for a sustainable tomorrow in Okayama and beyond.