#Japan #Maniwa City #Maniwa #GREENable #Ba & Co

Harmony with Nature: The Upcoming Action Contest in Maniwa City

Introduction

In an age where environmental concerns are paramount, Maniwa City in Okayama Prefecture is taking proactive steps to promote sustainable living. In collaboration with Ba & Co Inc., a competition named “Action Contest to Positively Shape Our Lives with Nature in Maniwa”, nicknamed “Asumani”, is set to launch on August 3, 2026. This initiative invites participants to present creative actions that embrace a harmonious existence with nature.

Understanding Asumani

The term Asumani encapsulates a diverse array of actions and ideas that revolve around integrating nature into daily life. The competition revolves around themes such as playing in nature, leveraging natural resources, and nurturing a love for the environment. The aim is to foster a community that is not only aware but actively engaging with its natural surroundings.

Historical Context

Maniwa City is not just a pretty face adorned with scenic beauty; it is a treasure trove of traditions that exemplify a long-standing coexistence between humans and nature. Centuries-old practices such as “yamayaki”, or mountain burning, and traditional crafts like “gama zaiku”, represent the localized knowledge and skills honed through experience.

In addition to these cultural practices, Maniwa is a significant producer of timber in western Japan. The city is also home to biomass power generation, initiatives by GREENable promoting environmental sustainability, and projects that convert organic waste into liquid fertilizer. Such endeavors reflect a persistent quest to utilize natural resources sustainably.

Contest Details

The Asumani Action Contest isn't merely an exercise in creativity; it’s seen as a platform to cultivate a Nature-Positive approach to living. The competition is open to all—no advanced expertise or established achievements are necessary. Entries can stem from simple passions for nature, like preserving local landscapes, or from innovative ideas aimed at revitalizing community resources.

Categories of Participation

The contest features three main categories:
1. Junior Division (for junior high school students)
- Activities celebrating harmonious living with nature. Examples include wildlife observation, efforts not to waste school meals, and participating in community clean-up events.

2. Action Division (for individuals, neighborhood associations, and non-profit organizations)
- Projects could range from starting new wildlife conservation initiatives to trying out innovative uses for plants and vegetables.

3. Business Division (for companies and organizations)
- This category emphasizes ideas utilizing local resources for nature-centered business enterprises.

Entrants are required to provide basic information about their activities and answer specific questions regarding their initiatives on the contest's application form. Participants in the Action and Business divisions must submit a presentation video by October 2, 2026.

Online Information Sessions

To assist potential participants in navigating the entry process, several online consultation sessions will be held to address questions about eligibility, application details, and helpful tips.

• - Dates: August 20, August 31, September 14, September 25 (All sessions from 19:30 to 20:30)
• - These sessions are open to all divisions and are free to join.

Project Support and Awards

What sets this contest apart is its commitment to post-contest support. Following the announcement of winners, Maniwa City authorities and local enterprises will provide support in launching and promoting the winning initiatives. The recognition will extend beyond mere awards; it encompasses comprehensive assistance for embarking on future projects.

Prize Structure

Various awards will be available across categories:

• - Grand Prize winners in the Junior Division receive both recognition and 10,000 Maniy Points (local currency).
• - The action and business divisions will offer additional funding support, with the potential for grants reaching up to 500,000 yen and 1,000,000 yen, respectively.

Evaluation Criteria

The submissions will be evaluated based on:

• - The reflection of Maniwa’s unique characteristics.
• - The level of innovation presented.
• - The degree to which the project is exciting and engaging.

The judging panel will be announced on the designated contest website.

Conclusion

The Asumani Action Contest represents not just a competition but a movement; it is a call to action for ideas and practices that foster a thriving coexistence between humanity and nature. Ultimately, the goal is to inspire a new generation to cherish and protect the natural resources of Maniwa City and beyond.

For more information, please visit the special contest site: Asumani Contest.