Discovering Sustainability: An Adult Study Tour in Okinawa's Coral Village

Discovering Sustainability in Onna Village, Okinawa

Okinawa, Japan, known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant coral reefs, is taking significant steps towards sustainability. One notable initiative is the adult study tour offered by Veltra Inc., in partnership with SDG Partners, targeting individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of sustainable practices. Scheduled to run from December 18, 2023, this tour is designed to provide participants with practical knowledge and a unique perspective on sustainability, particularly in light of Onna Village’s commitment to becoming 'the friendliest village to both coral and people' in the world.

A Unique Learning Experience

This year marks the second installment of the 'Adult Study Tour' program, which combines theoretical learning with hands-on experiences. Each tour is supervised by Kazuo Tase, CEO of SDG Partners and a recognized leader in sustainability efforts globally, including at the United Nations. Participants will engage in both classroom-based discussions and fieldwork, encouraging them to reflect on how their lifestyles and business practices can be more sustainable.

Tour Highlights

1. In-depth Learning Before the Journey
Before heading to Okinawa, participants will attend a pre-tour workshop led by Tase. This workshop will frame essential questions revolving around sustainability, such as, 'How do we live in harmony with nature?' and 'What can we share with the local community?' This will set the foundation for a more thoughtful and impactful tour experience.

2. Engaging Local Perspectives
Throughout the trip, participants will experience three core perspectives:
- The Problem Solver’s Perspective (Environmental): Engage in coral planting and learn about eco-conscious diving with guidelines from the 'Green Fins' initiative.
- The Resident’s Perspective (Lifestyle): Participate in cooking experiences with locals to gain insight into the daily lives, challenges, and aspirations of the community.
- The Past & Cultural Perspective: Visit local museums and engage in discussions about the traditions and values that define the village, ensuring the preservation of cultural heritage amidst modern changes.

3. Reflecting on Learnings
After the trip, participants will share their reflections and insights gained during the journey. A follow-up workshop with Tase will provide an opportunity to discuss how the learned principles can influence their personal lives and professional engagements.

Why Onna Village?

In 2018, Onna Village declared itself as a 'Coral Village' and was recognized as a model city for sustainable development in 2019. The local government collaborates with various sectors, including fishing, agriculture, tourism, and education, to promote initiatives aimed at coral conservation and community-driven environmental actions, such as beach clean-ups. This collaborative effort serves as an exemplary model of how humans can coexist with nature, making Onna Village the perfect backdrop for our sustainable study tour.

Tour Details

- Program Name: Adult Study Tour 'Learning SDGs in the World’s Kindest Village to Corals' - A 2-night, 3-day learning journey through nature, history, and local culture in Onna Village, Okinawa.
- Dates: March 6 (Friday) – March 8 (Sunday), 2026
- Price: ¥158,900 per person
- More Information: Visit Veltra's website for details.

About SDG Partners

Dedicated to fostering sustainable societies, SDG Partners provides consulting, lectures, and educational training to support organizations in achieving sustainability.

- Website: sdgpartners.jp

About Veltra

Veltra transcends traditional travel company boundaries, offering solutions for unforgettable experiential journeys from home to international destinations. With over 19,000 tours available across 150 countries, Veltra connects around 2.6 million members with impactful travel experiences.