Satoyama Biodiversity Network (SATOBI)

A certification system that monetizes forest therapy recognized by Japan's medical community. Wellness experience programs across the nation's forested regions are certified based on rigorous scientific standards validating health benefits. This fusion of adventure tourism with medical wellness represents an emerging frontier in Japanese tourism and health innovation.

Technology converting agricultural waste like rice straw and corn stalks into biochar through carbonization. Simultaneously improves soil quality and sequesters carbon long-term. With government support, this technique enhances agricultural sustainability and revitalizes abandoned farmland while reducing chemical fertilizer dependence.

A certification system scientifically validating forest bathing health benefits and authenticating medically-grounded wellness tourism programs. Over 40 forests nationwide offer certified programs, tracking phytoncide effects and participant physiological changes. Collaboration with medical institutions realizes forest therapy as preventive medicine.

A construction and operational paradigm aiming for zero annual building energy consumption. Achieved through integration of solar panels, high-insulation windows, and efficient HVAC systems. Implementation progresses in Tokyo Olympics facilities and corporate headquarters, with expansion in retrofit projects for existing buildings. Leading building sector decarbonization and energy-efficiency innovation, achieving simultaneous property value appreciation and environmental impact reduction with international attention.

Direct partnership model between consumers and farmers enabling seasonal vegetable subscriptions—a modernized local food production system. Shared risk between farmers and consumers supports chemical-free organic farming. Stabilizes agricultural income while building consumer trust, creating innovative farming business models in depopulating regions. Young urbanites increasingly participate, driving heightened interest in food sourcing and agricultural sustainability.

Premium charcoal originating from Wakayama Prefecture, made from Ubamegashi oak. Known for extended burn time and superior humidity regulation properties, it is now utilized in water purification filters, soil amendments, and interior design. It exemplifies sustainable material innovation and eco-conscious product development in modern Japan.

A restoration and breeding project for endemic and critically endangered fish species in the Shimanto River, Kochi Prefecture. Centered on dam removal and riparian ecosystem recovery, it involves collaborative efforts among local fishermen, research institutions, and residents. It serves as a reference model for sustainable fisheries and biodiversity conservation integrated programs nationwide.

A marine ecosystem restoration project through seaweed (wakame and kombu) cultivation along Tottori and Hyogo coastlines. It simultaneously achieves blue carbon absorption and coastal fishery resource recovery, integrating climate action with sustainable fisheries. It gains attention as a model for simultaneously revitalizing coastal communities economically while regenerating the environment.

A concept representing agricultural and fishing villages where humans and nature coexist sustainably. Characterized by high biodiversity and traditional farming and fishing cultural heritage. Recently recognized as critical for urban-rural symbiosis, regional revitalization, and ecosystem conservation, satoyama and satoumi have become central to Japan's national sustainability policies, blending Japanese natural philosophy with practical sustainability.

Ecosystems of hilly/coastal regions created through human-nature coexistence. Facing challenges from depopulation but gaining renewed value through tourism development and conservation efforts. Functions as integrated approach to biodiversity protection, regional revitalization, and carbon neutrality.

A network project balancing biodiversity conservation with agricultural production in rural satoyama regions across multiple prefectures. It simultaneously promotes native species protection and local agricultural revitalization. By reviving traditional mosaic land-use patterns, it builds sustainable regional economies while protecting critical ecosystems.

A traditional Japanese rural landscape where humans and nature coexist. Forests, rice paddies, and settlements form an integrated sustainable ecosystem model that has gained international recognition. It draws attention as a model case for biodiversity conservation and sustainable land use.

Conservation activities for secondary forests where humans and nature coexist. Balancing biodiversity with regional economic revitalization through satoyama utilization. Programs by NPOs and local governments operate in hundreds of regions nationwide. Bamboo grove maintenance, vegetable cultivation, and eco-tourism generate hundreds of millions of yen annually. Gaining international attention as Japan's sustainable nature coexistence model in the SDG era.

Traditional landscapes demonstrating harmony between humans and nature. Semi-natural areas where human management maintains biodiversity. Satoyama conservation efforts simultaneously address rural depopulation and environmental protection. Recognized by the UN as a sustainable regional society model, demonstrating integrated solutions to environmental and social challenges.