We participated as a corporate partner in an environmental survey program organized by NPO Earthwatch Japan, as part of educational and social contribution activities and with the aim of expanding environmental and social contribution activities.

In FY2024, employees joined the research teams for two programs: “Satoyama in Fuji no Kuni—The connection between plants and insects,” a survey conducted in the mountains of Shizuoka City (Shizuoka Prefecture) in May, and “Revitalization of Kiso Horse Culture and Grassland,” a program held in Kaida Highlands in Kiso Town (Nagano Prefecture) in July.

Mr. Kinumura , Systems Promotion Dept. , IT Promotion Division

I took part in a survey of insect habitats in the mountains behind a former high school site. We caught flying insects using nets, captured insects living in trees by tapping branches with sticks to dislodge them from branches and leaves, and then classified the insects by species from their characteristics.

Although the site was not that deep in the mountains, I was amazed by how many species of insects we found. I learned how insect habitats are changing, as if in response to recent changes in the environment. This was a wonderful opportunity to learn about the ecology and environment of insects that I would be unaware of in everyday life.

Ms. Kobayashi, Pharmaceutical Packaging Sales Dept. , Films & Sheets Division

The Kiso Kaida Highlands is known as the birthplace of the Kiso horse, one of Japan’s native horse breeds. I took part in a survey of butterflies and their host plants in the grasslands that provide grass to feed these Kiso horses.

Through this survey, as well as learning about Japan’s few remaining semi-natural grasslands and the vital significance of preserving the nature of the region, I realized that to protect Kiso horse culture and the grasslands, it is important to find a balance between environmental protection and human needs.

We are working to conserve and beautify the areas surrounding each of our production plants by cooperating with local environmental conservation activities and campaigns against illegal dumping of waste as well as cleaning and beautification events organized by local communities.