Japan's Environmental Services Company Enhances Forest Conservation Efforts Through Reforestation Project

Strengthening Community Through Reforestation

Japan's Kanazai Holdings, a key player in building management and real estate, has recently announced a collaborative initiative aimed at enhancing forest conservation in Kochi Prefecture. This initiative, executed by its subsidiary, Kanazai Environmental Services, takes place within the framework of the “Collaborative Forest Creation Project.” The company’s commitment to farming the forests aligns with Japan’s push towards a carbon-neutral society, fostering ecological balance and sustainable development.

Event Overview

Kochi Prefecture boasts the highest forest coverage in Japan and has been actively engaging corporations, organizations, and local municipalities in the “Collaborative Forest Creation Project” since 2006. This initiative is a vital part of the prefecture's action plan launched in March 2022, embracing measures to achieve a carbon-neutral society.

Kanazai Environmental Services joined this program in 2010, designating its agreement forest as “Seiryū no Mori” (Forest of Clear Stream). Following a strategic merger in October 2023, the subsidiary continues to uphold the agreement, focusing on forest protection and development alongside government entities. Recently, a yearly exchange meeting was held involving Kanazai Environmental Services and personnel from the local government.

Engaging Activities and Learning

17 representatives from Kanazai Environmental Services participated in the exchange event held on November 13-14, 2025, at the “Seiryū no Mori” site in Shimonochi City, Kochi, featuring a series of activities designed to educate and engage participants in sustainable practices. The gathering included facility tours, environmental safety training, and, importantly, a hands-on tree planting experience.

Participants were taught the best techniques for planting cedar saplings on a sloped area. They learned the significance of orientation in planting the saplings, ensuring that they face the sun, as well as digging sufficiently deep and compacting the soil around the base to give the young trees a healthy start. Additionally, local forest associations are set to protect the seedlings against wildlife by establishing barriers and regularly maintaining the area to support growth.

The seedlings planted during this event will offer pivotal contributions to local environmental preservation, enhancing water source protection and promoting biodiversity over the next decade.

Reflections on the Experience

The experience of participating in the “Collaborative Forest Creation Project” provided significant insights into the crucial role forests play in environmental conservation. Forests naturally absorb carbon dioxide; however, old forests will gradually lose their effectiveness over time. To maintain sustainable environmental health, efforts must be focused on replacing aging forests with younger ones that restore CO₂ absorption capacity. Learning from this planting event, I am determined to elevate environmental awareness in our daily lives and contribute towards a sustainable future. (Shoda, Chief at Ujigo Sho, Kanazai Environmental Services)

Renewal of Partnership Agreement

During the event, a ceremony was held to renew the “Collaborative Forest Partners Agreement” with Kochi Prefecture and Shimanto City. The new agreement, effective from November 24, 2025, through November 23, 2030, reinforces our ongoing dedication to forest conservation in the region. Kanazai Environmental Services is eager to continue initiatives like tree planting and thinning forests, contributing to a locally nurtured forestry system.

Conclusion

The achievements showcased by Kanazai Environmental Services reflect the commitment to environmental responsibility and community engagement. As they advance the objectives of the “Collaborative Forest Creation Project,” they further their mission to cultivate sustainable practices and enhance the ecological integrity of Japan’s forests.

For more information about Kanazai Holdings and its initiatives, visit their official website here.