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

Coca-Cola's 'Learning from the Forest' 20th Anniversary Event

On July 4, 2026, Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan celebrated the 20th anniversary of its 'Learning from the Forest' project in Yamanashi, drawing largest participation yet, with 160 community members in attendance. This milestone was marked by a series of events aimed at fostering understanding of water conservation and the pivotal role forests play in nurturing this vital resource.

In a special program, participants were allowed access to the normally closed Shushaku factory and warehouse, located in Hokuto City, Yamanashi. Attendees explored how the forest and water ecosystems are interwoven, witnessing firsthand the processes that connect the forest to the products they enjoy. The day was rounded out with a ceremonial tree-planting event to represent a commitment to preserving this legacy for future generations.

Over the years, Coca-Cola has recognized the importance of water in its operations. By emphasizing water conservation, particularly in its factories and surrounding watersheds, they have initiated numerous efforts. Since 2006, the company has collaborated with local communities to enhance water resources, leading to contracts with 61 organizations across 15 watersheds, actively undertaking source conservation activities. The 'Learning from the Forest' project aims to clarify the link between business and nature, providing a platform for participants to engage with the environment.

Throughout its two-decade journey, the project has gathered over 18,000 participants, serving as a solid example of how corporate activity can foster a broader community initiative for preserving water.

Project Overview

The 'Learning from the Forest' project is part of a broader strategy by Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan to safeguard water resources. Since its establishment, the initiative has offered hands-on experiences, such as tree-thinning, planting, nature walks, and workshops, aiming to enhance awareness of the ecological roles that forests play, as well as their implications for water conservation and biodiversity.

Highlights from the Anniversary Event

Opening Ceremony

The event kicked off with an opening ceremony by Andrew Ferrett, Coca-Cola's Senior Executive Officer, who addressed the importance of this year’s theme and led the group in planting a maple seedling, representing their flagship product, 'Irohasu'. Ferrett underscored the significance of linking communities with nature through the project as a way to ensure sustainable water for future generations.

Water Conservation Efforts

Coca-Cola aims to achieve ambitious goals including a 350% rate of water replenishment by the years 2030 and 2035, as well as a 30-35% reduction in water usage from 2015 levels. The project has achieved notable milestones, with a 24% reduction in water use in the last five years and participation rates in the project reaching 88% across all of its facilities.

Forest Walks and Craft Workshops

The event included nature walks and crafting sessions that engaged participants in building awareness of the ecological systems. Guided tours through the forests demonstrated their importance for water retention and environmental stewardship. Participants crafted pencil holders from thinned timber and enjoyed traditional games, gaining firsthand experience in the cycle of forest resources.

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. A family commented on their excitement about entering the forest for the first time, while a local businessman expressed gratitude for the educational opportunities provided, highlighting the balance between enjoyment and learning.

Factory and Warehouse Tour

The factory tour showcased innovative practices, including the AWS Gold Certification for responsible water management, marking Coca-Cola's commitment to sustainability. The attendees learned about the automated processes that ensure consistent quality in manufacturing while reducing water usage.

Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan remains committed to nurturing future generations, reinforcing the need to protect both water and forests through collaborative community efforts. The company's focus on sustainability illustrates a profound connection between human activity and the natural world, promising a greener, more sustainable future.

To commemorate the 20th anniversary, Coca-Cola has launched a special site detailing the journey of the project and showcasing messages from partners, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in preserving water resources.

For more information, visit the project site.