Karatsu Minami High School's Environmental Project Shines at Osaka Expo

Karatsu Minami High School's Environmental Initiative

Karatsu Minami High School and Karatsu Farm & Food presented their innovative environmental conservation project at the Osaka-Kansai Expo, which took place on September 20, 2025. Their initiative, focusing on the themes of food, agriculture, environment, and sustainability, is built on a collaboration between high school students and the local community, aimed at global sustainability education (ESD).

During their presentation held at the TEAM EXPO Pavilion in the Future Life Village, students showcased the “Karatsu Minami-style Circular Symbiosis Cycle.” This engaging display was not just a demonstration of their hard work but a revelation of their commitment to creating a circular society. Through workshops and field activities, these students have actively participated in ESD, fostering collaborative learning and transforming values and actions in their community.

The journey towards this prestigious presentation began with their earlier success at a judging event at Fukuoka's Daimaru Tenjin Store’s Passage Square in 2024. The hard-earned fruits of their labor provided a solid foundation for what they achieved at the Expo. It was a unique opportunity for Karatsu to share its commitment to “Nature Positive” practices, the circular economy, and fundamental sustainable education principles aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Highlights from the Presentation

The initiative aims to protect one of Japan's top three pine groves, the “Niji no Matsubara.” During the event, students reported on their efforts to coexist with nature in Karatsu. Four students from the school shared their findings and experiences, including the development of a confectionery product made from the fallen leaves of the Niji no Matsubara and the importance of educating children about the environment.

In addition to the presentation, a booth was set up to display products made from repurposed materials, such as keychains crafted from plastic bottle caps and other items utilizing pine needles. Visitors were pleasantly surprised and amazed at the creativity displayed, with many remarking, “You wouldn’t guess these were made from waste.”

Mio Shinbi, a third-year student in the food distribution department, reflected on the experience, saying, "This was a culmination of three years of learning from my seniors. I am proud we could showcase our work successfully." The participation not only served as an educational milestone but also as a means for students to highlight their growth over the years.

Engaging With Visitors

The exhibition was not just about showcasing projects; alumni of Karatsu Minami High School also played a significant role in communicating their school's activities and the efforts of Precious Plastic. They enthusiastically explained their initiatives to the visitors, conveying the charm of the Karatsu community. This participation emerged as a significant legacy for the Rainbow Pine Grove project team.

On the same day, a session hosted by the Ministry of the Environment titled “Towards the Realization of a Nature-Positive 2030” took place. Students took the opportunity to visit various exhibits centered around nature-friendly initiatives within Osaka, gaining insights from regional best practices.

Additionally, Karatsu Farm & Food had the chance to present its nature-positive activities occurring in the Yokomakura area of the city of Karatsu to relevant officials from the Ministry, establishing connections to national-level discussions about local initiatives.

Looking Ahead

As they strive towards achieving the SDGs by 2030, plans are already underway for the next engagement. The “Green Expo 2027” will be held in Yokohama, where they hope to continue their presentations and awareness activities again at the Farm & Food Village.

Mark your calendars for October 3, when another representative from Saga Prefecture, BIOTEX, will showcase its contributions at the TEAM EXPO Pavilion, making it an event not to be missed. This is just one of the many ways in which Karatsu Minami High School is setting an inspiring example of youth involvement in environmental issues and community collaboration.

Organization Overview

Non-Profit Organization: Karatsu Farm & Food
Location: Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture
CEO: Nozomi Hamaguchi
Mission: Promoting environmental education (ESD), facilitating local projects towards a circular society, and community development through resource circulation.
Official Website: Karatsu Farm & Food