#Japan #Nagano #Hasegawa Fragrance #Koumi Town #Herb Cultivation

Hasegawa Fragrance and Koumi Town Collaborate for Sustainable Growth

In a landmark initiative, Hasegawa Fragrance Co., Ltd., headquartered in Tokyo, has partnered with Mugino Town, Nagano Prefecture, to enhance regional economy through herb cultivation. On July 23, 2023, both parties signed the "Ikoi Machi Koumi Project" agreement aiming to establish a sustainable herb farming model centered on circular agriculture. This collaboration not only seeks to boost local agriculture but also aims to ensure a stable supply of domestic raw materials for fragrance development.

Objectives of the Partnership

The primary goal of this agreement is to create an integrated circular economy model for herb cultivation, starting with lemongrass in Koumi Town. By merging cultivation, production, and recycling processes, the initiative aims to reduce environmental impact while revitalizing the local economy. Hasegawa Fragrance intends to foster the development of new local specialties and support farmers, further contributing to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by generating social value beyond just fragrance.

Key Collaborative Efforts in the Ikoi Machi Koumi Project

With the Ikoi Machi Koumi Project, Hasegawa Fragrance and Koumi Town will focus on three main areas:
1. Development of the circular agricultural model.
2. Initiatives directed towards the achievement of the SDGs.
3. Sustainable urban development and regional revitalization efforts.

Background of the Ikoi Machi Koumi Project

Launched in 2016, the project began as part of an urban development council aimed at promoting mental health care for companies. It utilizes Koumi's abundant natural environment to attract visitors through training programs, ultimately creating new relationships and boosting the community. Currently, 36 participating companies have joined the initiative, and they strive for mutual revitalization through collaboration (as of July 2025, including Hasegawa Fragrance).

Additional Information

For more on Koumi Town's press releases, please visit here.

Understanding Circular Economy

Circular economy refers to economic activities aimed at maximizing resource and product value while minimizing consumption and waste generation, ensuring effective utilization while reducing environmental burdens. According to Japan's Ministry of the Environment, this model seeks to promote sustainability in resources and minimize waste through innovative service offerings.

The Issue of Abandoned Farmlands in Japan

The problem of abandoned farmlands is rising due to an increasing number of farmers leaving the profession, primarily due to aging. As of 2015, about 423,000 hectares of land were abandoned, leading to concerns over food security and the functionality of neighboring farmlands.

Herb Cultivation in Koumi Town

Hasegawa Fragrance has been involved in waste management through the establishment of Koumi Composite in 1993, converting waste related to fragrance manufacturing into compost. This initiative supports a cycle of herb cultivation, fragrance production, and sustainable practices that benefit local farmers in Koumi Town. The first step in this agricultural journey is the trial cultivation of lemongrass, a popular ingredient in aromatherapy and ethnic cuisine.

About Hasegawa Fragrance Co., Ltd.

Founded in May 1903 and established in December 1961, Hasegawa Fragrance Co., Ltd. is located at 4-4-14 Nihonbashi Honcho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo. The company specializes in manufacturing and selling various flavors and fragrances for cosmetics and food, as well as food additives. Discover more at their website.