#Japan #Sapporo #Hokkaido #ISO14001 #Nippon Sports Facilities

Innovative Climate Control Using Snow

During the heat of summer, maintaining a comfortable office environment can be a challenge, especially with rising energy costs. To combat this, Nippon Sports Facilities, a company specializing in the construction and management of sports facilities, has introduced an innovative cooling system that uses snow as a natural refrigerant. This system will be implemented at their newly relocated Hokkaido office in Sapporo, with operations beginning in the summer of 2025.

Harnessing Hokkaido's Natural Resources

Nippon Sports Facilities has embraced the unique characteristics of Hokkaido's snowy climate to create an effective cooling solution. The Hokkaido Building, established in November 2024 with a focus on safety, comfort, and energy efficiency, stores snow collected during winter in an underground facility known as a "Himuro." This historical concept leverages natural cold energy, allowing the company to maintain a pleasant office temperature even on the hottest summer days.

As summer heat intensifies, with several days of extreme temperatures recorded in 2026, the demand for efficient cooling systems has become increasingly important. By tapping into Hokkaido’s snowfall, Nippon Sports Facilities has found a solution that minimizes energy consumption while maximizing comfort. The company's initiative was recognized during the regular inspection for the ISO14001:2015 environmental management system in June 2026, highlighting their commitment to reducing energy usage.

The Ancient Tradition of Himuro

The practice of using snow and ice to maintain cool temperatures dates back to ancient Japan. Historical texts, including the "Nihon Shoki," reference ice storage facilities, demonstrating that this method of utilizing natural cold has been part of the culture long before the advent of electricity. Even today, in areas with heavy snowfall, the tradition continues, with Himuro being used to store vegetables, rice, and sake, showcasing its enduring relevance.

Towards a Sustainable Office

With an aging workforce in the construction industry—projected to have 36.7% of employees aged 55 and above by 2024—there is a pressing need for sustainable and accommodating work environments. Nippon Sports Facilities’ Hokkaido office is designed with this in mind, incorporating features that allow senior employees to work comfortably and safely.

Features of the Hokkaido Office:

LED Lighting: Enhances visibility and creates a bright working environment.
Warm Aesthetic: The choice of wood-based materials promotes a cozy atmosphere.
Structural Integrity: Use of glued laminated timber ensures safety and durability.
Barrier-Free Design: Eliminates tripping hazards for improved safety.
Underfloor Heating: Prevents cold feet during harsh winters, facilitating smooth operations.
Safe Wiring: Concealed wiring reduces trip risks while promoting a clean appearance.
* Solar Energy: Equipped with solar power systems to ensure electricity availability during emergencies, enhancing business continuity (BCP).

Nippon Sports Facilities maintains a forward-thinking vision for 2030, aiming to create sports facilities that are accessible and safe for everyone. This commitment extends beyond users to the working environment of employees, ensuring that sustainability and well-being are at the forefront of their initiatives.

As Nippon Sports Facilities continues to innovate, the impact of their efforts on energy efficiency and employee comfort serves as a model for other industries seeking to reduce their carbon footprint while enhancing workplace satisfaction.