Learn from the Forest" project in Hyogo

Since 2008, we have been involved in corporate forestation activities in partnership with Hyogo prefecture and others. As part of this initiative, we have named a section of the forest park "Watershed Forest Tambasasayama" and have been undertaking forest conservation activities in the water source area of Akashi Plant for several years.
In November 2022, we organized the "Learn from the Forest" project in Tambasasayama, where participants, including Akashi Plant employees, learned about the importance of preserving Satoyama areas and restoring species diversity. The project also highlighted the pressures of overfeeding from deer populations^*¹.
To protect the endangered golden orchid^*² that grow in the area, participants installed deer-proof fences. This attempt is expected to promote the conservation of rare plants and preserve the area's unique biodiversity.
In November 2023, we conduct observation of the growth status after installation. We found that the number of plants inside the fence had increased from about 10 types to about 30 types, and the golden orchid had increased from 4 to 8 plants. In addition, we have also confirmed the appearance of new species such as Viburnum erosum and Callicarpa japonica indicating that the recovery of species diversity is steadily progressing.

*¹ Deer overpopulate, they eat plants that they do not eat before.
*² Endangered class II(VU) of MOE, and C rank of Hyogo prefecture.

In 2008, we entered into a consignment contract with the Bisan District Forestry Association, which oversees the water source area of the Hiroshima Plant. As part of this partnership, they carry out forest conservation activities to protect and nurture a rich and healthy forest.
In October 2022, we collaborated with Mihara city in Hiroshima and the Bisan Forestry Association to organize the "Learn from the Forest" project. During the project, the participants, including Hiroshima plant employees, learned about the benefits of thinning trees in bringing sunlight into the forest, promoting the growth of many plant species, and improving water source cultivation functions while contributing to biodiversity conservation.
On the day of the project, the participants engaged in tree-thinning activities. Moreover, we selected and planted local native plants such as the Japanese maple and Prunus jamasakura, as they are well-suited for the local environment and provide a good combination for the area's biodiversity.

The Aso Grassland Restoration Committee is dedicated to preserving and replenishing the grassland areas surrounding the city of Aso in Kumamoto. To support their efforts, CCBJH has been donating funds, and since 2011 our employees have volunteered to assist with controlled thatch burning.
Burning dead grasses in the area has many benefits, including aiding in grassland restoration, water retention, landscape preservation, pest control, and protecting the ecosystem for endangered species. The Aso region is home to 56 endangered and rare species of plants and animals, including Jacob's ladder. By supporting grassland restoration, we are also helping to protect these diverse species.
In 2022, in conjunction with the United Nations Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15), we welcomed a lecturer from Aso Green Stock to hold a special internal lecture. The session focused on rare species in the Aso region, the importance of biodiversity, the function of carbon fixation, and the differences between the water resource cultivation functions of forests and grasslands. We are working to raise employee awareness of biodiversity conservation.

Water Source Forest Ebino, which we have long protected as a water source area around Ebino Plant (Ebino city, Miyazaki Prefecture), has received certification from the Ministry of the Environment as a Nationally Certified Sustainably Managed Natural Site for the second half of FY2023. This recognition highlights our commitment to biodiversity conservation through private initiatives. It was also registered in the World Database on Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs)^* in August 2024.
Water Source Forest Ebino, covering about 203 hectares, is located in the water source area for our Ebino Plant. In 2014, we signed a four-party forest conservation agreement with Miyazaki Prefecture, the mountain-foot common forest, and the Nishimoro Forest Owner’s Cooperative, and have been engaged in water source replenishment activities. The 203-hectare woodland has been confirmed to be home to freshwater crabs, frogs and other amphibians, kites, blue pigeons, damselflies and other important species. Through the conservation of the forest in the water source replenishment area, we are contributing to the preservation of this rich diversity of life.

* A geographically defined area other than a Protected Area, which is governed and managed in ways that achieve positive and sustained long-term outcomes for the in situ conservation of biodiversity with associated ecosystem functions and services and where applicable, cultural, spiritual, socio–economic, and other locally relevant values.

In 2025, part of Water Source Forest Houki, a contract forest located in the watershed of our Daisen Plant in Tottori Prefecture, was certified as a Nature Positive site under Japan’s Act on the Promotion of Biodiversity.
Since 2007, we have carried out forest management activities in the area to replenish and protect water resources. Biodiversity surveys conducted by experts have confirmed the presence of a wide variety of native plants and animals.
In recognition of these efforts, the site was also listed in the World Database on OECMs.
In cooperation with Tottori Prefecture, we conduct participatory monitoring activities involving local residents as part of the Learn from the Forest Project. We also work with local governments and experts to remove designated invasive alien species. Through these and other initiatives, we continue to work with local communities to conserve the ecosystem. Going forward, we will expand these efforts to include the conservation of native species, including rare species.

In collaboration with experts, we conducted a biodiversity survey at the Water Source Forest Zao, located in the watershed of our Zao Plant in Miyagi Prefecture.
The survey confirmed a healthy ecosystem, including rare species and species that depend on spring-fed habitats. The area was also found to have high biodiversity value due to its ecological connectivity with nearby protected areas.
We will use these findings to better understand the site's conservation value and develop appropriate management plans. Through ongoing monitoring and conservation activities, we will continue working to protect the watershed’s rich natural environment and biodiversity.

A biodiversity survey conducted at the Water Source Forest Zao confirmed the presence of cutleaf coneflower (Rudbeckia laciniata), a designated invasive species. Because this plant spreads rapidly and can negatively affect native plants, animals, and ecosystems, we undertook activities to remove it as part of our biodiversity conservation efforts.
We have also conducted removal activities for water speedwell (Veronica anagallis-aquatica), another designated invasive species at the Water Source Forest Houki.
Managing invasive species requires ongoing effort. Continuous monitoring and management are essential to maintaining healthy ecosystems. We will continue to work with local stakeholders and experts to protect the rich natural environment and the biodiversity of our watersheds.

Leveraging Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, we have introduced the Biome biodiversity tracking app from Biome Inc. on our company mobile phones. This allows employees to enjoyably engage with the importance of biodiversity conservation. By analyzing and using animal and plant data collected from different locations, we also aim to contribute to the 30by30 target^*.

* Effective preservation of 30% or more of land and sea areas as healthy ecosystems, with the aim of achieving "Nature Positive" status that halts and reverses the loss of biodiversity by 2030.

We hold Nature café, a hands-on event using the Biome app to promote employees’ understanding of biodiversity since 2024.
The program has included online lectures and plant and animal searches in parks near offices in Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and other locations. Many employees have gained a deeper understanding of the importance of biodiversity conservation through this enjoyable experiential activity.