#Japan #Tokyo #water conservation #Coca-Cola #Forest Project

Coca-Cola's 'Learn from the Forest' Project: 20 Years of Conservation Efforts

Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan has been actively engaged in water resource conservation for two decades through its unique initiative, the 'Learn from the Forest' project. Launched in 2006, this project combines environmental education with practical conservation efforts, and it has now reached a significant milestone: its 20th anniversary scheduled for 2026. To commemorate this achievement and to enhance community engagement, Coca-Cola has officially launched a dedicated website for the project, providing an array of information on past and upcoming events.

About the Project

The 'Learn from the Forest' initiative not only focuses on community involvement but also emphasizes vital ecological education. In collaboration with local governments, forestry unions, and non-profit organizations (NPOs), this project endeavors to educate participants on the importance of forest conservation and ecosystem preservation. The project provides hands-on experiences such as thinning forests, planting trees, and observing wildlife.

The project is built upon three core pillars: Reduce, which seeks to minimize water consumption during production; Recycle, focused on effective wastewater management; and Replenish, involving the investigation and preservation of local water sources. This holistic approach aims to create a sustainable water cycle around each of Coca-Cola’s 17 factories.

Throughout its 20-year history, the project has extended its reach significantly. Currently, Coca-Cola has established contracts with 61 organizations across 27 municipalities, specifically targeting 15 river basins surrounding their production facilities. The ongoing conservation efforts include the development of watershed management plans and nurturing local water sources, all aimed at bolstering the ecosystems in these areas.

New Website Launch

Marking the 20-year anniversary, the newly launched website serves as a resource hub for the project. Visitors can explore content that highlights two decades of initiatives and efforts, alongside details about upcoming events. The website features application forms for interested participants, thereby broadening access beyond the immediate vicinity of the factories.

To promote attendance and involvement, the website facilitates communication of event details widely. The goal is to encourage greater participation from individuals who may not have been previously aware of such opportunities.

Upcoming Events for 2026

As a part of the anniversary celebrations, Coca-Cola is gearing up for several exciting events across various locations in Japan. Two major upcoming events have already been scheduled:

1. 'Learn from the Forest' Project in Miyazaki Ebino
- Date: April 11, 2026
- Application Deadline: March 12, 2026
- Activities: Participants will get hands-on experience in bamboo grove maintenance and have the chance to observe forestry machinery demonstrations. Additionally, activities such as bamboo shoot harvesting and woodworking will be included.

2. 'Learn from the Forest' Project in Hyogo Tanba Sasayama
- Date: April 25, 2026
- Application Deadline: March 26, 2026
- Activities: The event will include tree planting, guided nature walks, and moss ball making, providing participants with a wholesome experience immersed in nature.

For more details about these events, as well as ongoing activities and the vision of the 'Learn from the Forest' project, please visit the official website.

Conclusion

Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan's commitment to safeguarding our precious water resources while fostering a love for the environment continues to grow stronger. With the advent of the official website, the hope is to spread awareness and encourage broader participation in this vital initiative. Together, through education and action, communities can play a transformative role in preserving our forests and ensuring the sustainability of our water resources for generations to come.