Totoro's Forest in Saitama Among Newly Certified Nature Sites
Certification of Totoro's Forest and over a hundred other sites is part of government efforts to conserve 30% of the nation's habitats for biodiversity by 2030.
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The Ministry of the Environment announced on October 6 the certification of Shizen Kyousei Sites (“Sites in Harmony with Nature”). A total of 122 locations across 35 prefectures, including "Totoro's Forest" in Saitama, were included. The certification scheme is part of a ministry initiative to designate areas where ecosystems are protected based on responsible management by businesses and private organizations. This marks the first such certification.
Japan's 30by30 Target
The government has set a goal to conserve over 30% of the nation’s land and marine habitats by 2030 as part of its commitment to biodiversity preservation. A second round of certifications is scheduled to take place before the end of fiscal year 2023.
The ministry's overarching goal is to certify approximately 500 locations by fiscal year 2026.
The area covered by this initial selection amounts to roughly 77,000 hectares, the equivalent of 0.2% of the nation’s total landmass. It encompasses diverse areas. These range from forests on the premises of major corporations and factories to local satoyama areas. Biotopes situated atop childcare facilities and office buildings are also among the sites.
Administrators responsible for sites draft conservation plans and undergo evaluation by experts to secure certification. If specified criteria are met, forested areas owned by temples and shrines, golf courses, ski resorts, and various other locales are eligible. Business and organizations receiving this certification can showcase their environmentally conscious practices to consumers.
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