#Japan #Tokyo #Carbon Zero #JAL Group #Hokkaido University

JAL Group and Hokkaido University Join Forces for Sustainable Agriculture

On October 9, 2025, Japan Airlines Co., Ltd. (commonly known as JAL), along with its affiliated entity JAL Agriport Co., Ltd. and the Graduate School of Agriculture at Hokkaido University, announced a groundbreaking partnership focused on advancing sustainable practices in agriculture through the use of renewable energy. This collaboration aims to promote carbon-zero farming, with an emphasis on utilizing cutting-edge academic consultancy to optimize agricultural processes and improve yield qualities.

This partnership leverages Hokkaido University’s expertise in perennial strawberry cultivation, aiming to implement high-quality year-round strawberry farming at the JAL-operated farm, known as JAL FARM. With its vast agricultural land near Narita Airport, JAL Agriport is well-positioned to take on this challenge.

The initiative includes plans to initiate a pilot program for carbon-zero farming starting in July 2025. However, launching such sustainable practices requires hefty investments in high-tech equipment and operational costs, raising concerns about consistent revenue throughout the year. New challenges have emerged as climate change continues to make it harder to grow crops, including strawberries. To address these issues, the partnership seeks to explore summer cultivation of strawberries, typically harvested in colder months, to provide steady and premium strawberry production throughout the entire year.

The collaboration also encourages further synergies by tapping into the extensive network of Hokkaido University's Graduate School of Agriculture, facilitating interconnected farming practices conducive to sustainable agribusiness. Thus, both JAL Group and Hokkaido University aim to make significant contributions to creating a sustainable society. Through this project, the partners strive to validate improved profitability through consistent fruit production year-round while simultaneously establishing a forward-thinking model for sustainable carbon-zero agriculture.

Specific Areas of Collaboration

• - Hokkaido University’s Graduate School of Agriculture will provide specialized support for year-round strawberry cultivation at JAL FARM.
• - Ongoing remote support and advisory services will be available to ensure the successful implementation of year-round strawberry cultivation practices.

JAL Agriport was established in 2018 as part of JAL's agricultural endeavors and operates on a large expanse of farmland, focusing on leveraging local resources. It also manages a traditional-style restaurant named “Goryō Turu,” serving dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, thus contributing not only to sustainable practices but also to local economy stimulation.

This partnership represents a crucial step for JAL Group and Hokkaido University toward developing a sustainable agricultural model that addresses pressing issues in the farming industry. It exemplifies how strategic collaborations can lead to innovative solutions, combat climate change, and elevate regional revitalization efforts.

In conclusion, the synergies between the academic institution and the corporate sector pave the way for a new paradigm of agricultural development and environmental responsibility, making strides toward a greener and more sustainable future for the agriculture industry in Japan and beyond.