Today, I would like to talk about the “Minna no Mori” (Everyone’s Forest) project in Owase City, Mie Prefecture. This initiative is filled with valuable lessons and possibilities.
The “Minna no Mori” project is an ambitious effort to restore abandoned artificial forests and revive biodiversity. Owase City and Local Coop are working together to protect the local natural environment in a sustainable way and pass it on to future generations. When I first learned about this project, I was deeply moved. This initiative is not just about protecting the environment—it also aims to revitalize the local community and build a new economic foundation.
Through “Minna no Mori,” I envision a future where local resources are given new value. With declining demand for timber, I was impressed by the mechanism that monetizes forests through the use of J-Credits, enabling sustainable forest management. Another key aspect is the hope it provides in the fight against climate change through the restoration of both mountains and oceans. I was amazed by the idea that improving forests can also have a positive impact on marine ecosystems.
One thing that aligns with Sosha’s projects is the thoughtful balance between people, nature, and technology. Owase’s initiative is also a redefinition of “local commons,” making hidden local resources visible and allowing residents to take an active role in managing them. If similar initiatives spread nationwide, they could offer valuable insights into overcoming the challenges of a declining population.
What resonated with me the most is that local residents are at the heart of this project. As the limitations of local governance become more apparent, mechanisms like Local Coop, which empower residents, will be essential in many communities moving forward. At the same time, support from government bodies, businesses, and technology is indispensable in sustaining such initiatives.
The lessons I have learned from “Minna no Mori” are also being applied to my own projects. At Sosha, we utilize AI technology to identify areas where human involvement is most needed, aiming to solve regional and societal challenges. The case of Owase teaches us that technology, when working hand in hand with local traditions and resources, can help build a sustainable future.
Finally, I see the “Minna no Mori” project as a beacon of hope for the future of rural areas. The ideas and mechanisms born here should be shared nationwide. As I continue to learn from initiatives like this, I am committed to further evolving my own projects.