Edible KAYABAEN Wins the 45th Urban Greenery Award for Sustainability

Edible KAYABAEN: A Beacon of Urban Sustainability

In a commendable achievement for urban sustainability, Edible KAYABAEN, a rooftop garden located in Nihonbashi, has earned the prestigious Urban Greenery Organization President's Award at the 45th Urban Greenery Awards. Owned and operated by Heiwa Real Estate Co., Ltd., this innovative project opened its doors in April 2022, contributing significantly to the urban landscape of Nihonbashi Kabutocho and Kayabacho.

What is Edible KAYABAEN?

Edible KAYABAEN is a rooftop garden situated atop the Tokyo Stock Exchange building, designed to cultivate around 200 varieties of edible plants. It serves as a model for sustainable urban agriculture, combining educational initiatives, community engagement, and environmental conservation. With the aim of promoting green space in urban environments, this garden not only enriches the local ecosystem but also facilitates a circular economy through food production.

The garden also embodies a membership system that invites cooperation from local businesses and individuals who share a commitment to sustainability. This approach has transformed Edible KAYABAEN into a versatile communal space where office workers and children alike can come together, learn, and enjoy the benefits of nature. It's an embodiment of the initiative to create a city where everyone can have a ‘place’.

Educational Partnerships and Initiatives

Aiming to foster a culture of sustainability, Edible KAYABAEN collaborates with several local corporations to provide educational programs to local schools. In partnership with the Edible Schoolyard Japan (ESYJ), this initiative helps nurture children's skills and understanding of food production. Through hands-on experiences such as planting, harvesting, and cooking, students learn about the vital connections between our food systems and the environment. This not only promotes healthy eating but also instills a sense of responsibility towards nature.

Five local companies, including Ichiyoshi Securities and Fujinippon Co., have committed to supporting this initiative, enhancing educational outreach efforts to the community, particularly Sakamoto Elementary School in Chuo Ward. This collaboration aims to connect students and adults alike to the understandings of sustainable practices and healthy living.

The Significance of the Urban Greenery Award

The Urban Greenery Award, established in 1981, is handed out to recognize outstanding efforts in urban greening that improve environmental quality and scenery while promoting community involvement in city greenery. The awards are divided into three categories: the “Citizen Collaboration Section,” the “Business Activities Section,” and the “City Development Section.” Awardees in these categories represent some of the most innovative green projects in Japan.

Edible KAYABAEN was chosen for the President's Award in the Business Activities section, which underscores its commitment to leading the way in sustainable urban development. By utilizing green spaces effectively and promoting biodiversity, the garden contributes significantly to enhancing the quality of life in urban settings.

Future Goals and Contribution to SDGs

Looking ahead, Edible KAYABAEN continues to strive for building a sustainable society by addressing environmental and social challenges. This vision aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on environmental stewardship and community building. Heiwa Real Estate, as a part of its “Bazukuri Company” initiative, emphasizes stakeholder communication to enhance mutual satisfaction, contributing towards a sustainable future.

In addition to being an educational site, Edible KAYABAEN hosts a variety of events that appeal to both children and adults, ensuring that its programs are inclusive and engaging. From composting workshops to farm festivals, the location serves not only as a garden but also as a platform for community connection and awareness.

Conclusion

Edible KAYABAEN is not just a garden; it is a community hub that emphasizes the importance of nature in urban life. By integrating educational components and sustainability efforts, this remarkable project stands out as a leader in the movement for greener cities. Its recent recognition from the Urban Greenery Organization not only honors its achievements but also inspires other urban areas to embrace nature as a vital component of city planning and community living. As Nihonbashi Kabutocho and Kayabacho continue to evolve, projects like Edible KAYABAEN will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of urban sustainability.

For more information about Edible KAYABAEN, you can visit their official website.