#Japan #green bond #Gunma #JARC #Gunma Prefecture

JARC's Engagement with Gunma Prefecture on Green Bonds

In a significant stride towards environmental sustainability, the Japan Automobile Recycling Promotion Center (JARC), headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, has recently published an engagement report detailing its dialogue with Gunma Prefecture regarding their green bonds. This engagement marks the continuation of JARC's collaborative efforts with Gunma Prefecture, which has issued green bonds for three consecutive years since 2023.

Background on Green Bonds

Green bonds are a popular financial instrument designed to raise funds for projects that have positive environmental impacts. Gunma Prefecture has been proactive in utilizing this method to finance sustainable initiatives, aligning with the global trend towards eco-friendly finance.

The engagement took place on October 31, 2025, at the Gunma Prefectural Office, featuring a discussion between Noriko Sekine, the Director of the General Affairs Department of Gunma Prefecture, and Kenichi Komiya, JARC's Executive Director. Their dialogue centered on the motivations and objectives behind the issuance of green bonds, including specific funding usages and achieved outcomes.

Key Discussion Points

During the engagement, JARC, as an investor, confirmed the effective use of funds raised through the green bonds, discussing how these align with Gunma Prefecture's 'Gumma Five Zero Declaration' and JARC's initiatives aimed at providing educational opportunities for the youth. This two-fold approach not only emphasizes fiscal responsibility but also underlines a commitment to social development through education and sustainability.

JARC's Commitment to Sustainability

Founded in 2000, JARC has dedicated itself to promoting efficient resource use and environmental conservation through various projects, including the proper recycling and management of automobiles. The organization began engaging in ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) investments in 2018, aiming to contribute further to the realization of a sustainable society. As of September 2025, the total investment balance in SDGs bonds reached a substantial 43.5 billion yen.

JARC understands that expanding engagement in the bond sector is crucial for Japan's sustainable finance. Consequently, the organization actively promotes dialogue with issuing entities, driving conversations that matter for future sustainable initiatives.

Future Engagements and Initiatives

JARC's commitment is evident through its past and planned engagements with various local governments and organizations. Here are some notable previous dialogues:

• - October 2024: Fukui Prefecture - Initiatives addressing circular economy challenges.
• - December 2023: Okinawa Development Finance Corporation - Solutions to Okinawa's unique issues and the achievement of SDGs.
• - November 2022: Kitakyushu City - Initiatives as a model city for promoting SDGs.

These discussions not only exemplify JARC's proactive approach to addressing pressing environmental concerns but also highlight the importance of inter-organizational collaboration in achieving sustainable goals.

Conclusion

As we move forward, it is clear that JARC's dedication and strategic engagements are vital for enhancing awareness and implementation of sustainable financial practices in Japan. Its collaboration with local governments like Gunma Prefecture demonstrates a holistic approach to addressing both environmental and social governance, paving the way for a greener future.

For more information about JARC, visit their official website here.