#Japan #Tokyo #Earth Day #Environmental Initiative #Present Tree

Earth Day Japan Network and Present Tree's New Forest Initiative

On April 4, 2026, during the Earth Day Forum, the Earth Day Japan Network, a general incorporated association based in Minato, Tokyo, and the certified NPO Environmental Relations Research Institute, located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, announced a compelling new project: the "Earth Day Forest" initiative. This initiative aims to engage communities in forest restoration efforts, reflecting Earth Day's core values.

Since its inception in the United States in 1970, Earth Day has grown into a global movement, with participation from over 1 billion individuals in 192 countries. However, the challenges posed by climate change and biodiversity loss are becoming increasingly severe. In this context, the Earth Day Forest initiative aims to bridge the gap between environmental理念 and actionable efforts.

The project draws on the extensive experience of Present Tree, a citizen-participatory program that has championed forest restoration across Japan for over two decades. It provides a platform for individuals who resonate with Earth Day's mission to collaboratively participate in shaping the forests of the future.

Through partnerships between businesses, local governments, and communities, Present Tree has cultivated relationships that foster environmental stewardship while revitalizing local communities. The Earth Day Forest serves as a symbolic project of Earth Day, where participants contribute to planting trees and nurturing forests that embody their hopes for our planet’s future.

The Earth Day Japan Network and Present Tree are committed to proposing innovative models of involvement that translate environmental conservation ideals into concrete actions.

Upcoming Events

The initiative kicks off with several forest creation events this spring, scheduled to take place in various regions, including:

• - Yatsushiro, Kumamoto Prefecture (April 18-19)
• - Fuefuki, Yamanashi Prefecture (May 17)
• - Yokosuka, Kanagawa Prefecture (June 6)

Additional events are also planned for the fall in locations such as Horokanai, Hokkaido, Osaki, Miyagi, Wajima, Ishikawa, and Takayama, Gifu. Details about these events can be found on the official website, and participants are encouraged to sign up via LINE or email newsletters for updates.

• - LINE Membership Sign-up: LINE Registration
• - Email Membership Sign-up: Email Registration

Introduction to Earth Day Japan Network

Established as the official Japanese representative of the global Earth Day movement, Earth Day Japan Network aims to connect various stakeholders who wish to express and engage in environmental actions in their own unique ways. The organization strives to build a network of over 60 involved Earth Day groups nationwide.

Website: Earth Day Japan Network

In addition, the Earth Day Japan Network unveiled the EARTHDAY MAP in 2023, featuring over 260 Earth Day actions, with the 2026 MAP recently published. They welcome information submissions from anyone interested in sharing their initiatives.

• - EARTHDAY MAP 2026: MAP 2026
• - Registration Form: Registration

Overview of Present Tree

The name "Present Tree" embodies two meanings: a gift to loved ones and a present to local forests, symbolizing a commitment to the future of the Earth. This project encourages urbanites to plant trees in neglected forests, disaster-affected areas, and repurposed lands across the country. By planting trees as a gift to themselves or their loved ones, participants foster community ties and promote regional vitality over the subsequent decade.

Present Tree aims to build connections and enliven not only the forests but entire communities through this collaborative effort.
Website: Present Tree

About the Certified NPO Environmental Relations Research Institute

Forecasts suggest Japan's population may diminish to one-third or even one-fourth of its current size in the next century. The institute is dedicated to ensuring that Japan's forests remain beautiful and sustainable despite these changes. They invite individuals and businesses interested in supporting Present Tree or landowners uncertain about managing their forest lands to get in touch.

Together, we can advance toward a greener future and foster sustainable forest management.

For Further Information

• - Name: Certified NPO Environmental Relations Research Institute
• - Address: 2-3-12 Kanda Ogawamachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0052
• - Phone: 03-5283-8143
• - Established: Originally started as a voluntary organization in October 1999, it became a certified NPO in April 2010 after receiving recognition from the Cabinet Office.

Engage with us as we grow forests for the future!