Introduction
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in today’s society. In this context, a new concept called “nature positivity” is gaining attention. Nature Positive refers to efforts to restore the natural environment to a sustainable state by conserving and restoring biodiversity. Examples include projects to protect forests and provide places for animals to live, or to restore wetlands and improve water quality. We will explore in detail how these efforts affect our lives and their significance.
What is Nature Positive?
Nature Positive is a concept that aims to halt the loss of biodiversity by 2030 and restore it. It aims to create a “symbiotic society” in which human society and nature live together. It is also an effort to restore balance between the environment and the economy by utilizing natural capital for economic activities. It is attracting attention as a new model that improves our quality of life while protecting the natural environment by utilizing renewable resources.
Why do we need Nature Positive?
Today, more than 75% of the Earth’s land surface and 66% of its oceans have been altered by human activities. This situation is taking away habitat for many plants and animals, driving them to the brink of extinction. For example, deforestation has displaced many animals, and ocean pollution has severely impacted fish and coral reefs. In addition, environmental degradation is exacerbating climate change and seriously affecting food and water supplies. Nature Positive’s efforts are aimed at solving these problems and benefiting both nature and humans.
Trends in Japan and the World
International Framework
At the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the Convention on Biological Diversity held in 2022, the “Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework” was adopted. This framework sets specific goals to restore nature by 2030. Countries around the world are cooperating to promote actions to protect biodiversity.
Initiatives in Japan
Japan has formulated the “National Biodiversity Strategy 2023-2030” and aims to achieve the “30by30 target” in Japan. This goal is to conserve at least 30% of the land and ocean as protected areas or OECMs (other effective area-based conservation measures). For example, measures are underway to expand existing national parks and nature reserves, designate new conservation areas, and strengthen management systems in these areas. In addition, with the cooperation of local communities and businesses, concrete actions are being taken to realize a sustainable society, and nature restoration projects and biodiversity-friendly agriculture are being developed in each region.
Importance of the 30 by 30 Target
What is the 30 by 30 Target?
The 30by30 goal is an initiative that aims to conserve at least 30% of the Earth’s land and oceans by 2030. This goal also contributes to climate change adaptation and restoration of ecosystem services. It will also play an important role in promoting the development of economies that take advantage of the region’s natural capital.
Progress in Japan
Currently, 20.5% of terrestrial areas and 13.3% of marine areas in Japan are designated as protected areas. However, further efforts are needed to achieve the goal. In particular, there is a need to expand conservation activities and build a network of ecosystems by increasing the number of areas recognized as OECMs.
Examples by companies
Many companies are contributing to biodiversity conservation.
| Company Name | Details of Initiatives | Details | Effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| AEON Co. | Promoting the AEON Hometown Forests Program | Increased forests and promoted CO₂ absorption | Improvement of local environment |
| Toyota Motor Corporation | Developed a nature-symbiosis-type plant | Adopted a plant design that is friendly to living organisms | Protection of local ecosystems |
| Kao Corporation | Development of environmentally friendly products | Waste Reduction and Consumer Awareness | Reduction of environmental impact |
| Suntory Holdings Limited | Developing “Natural Water Forest” water source recharge activities | Protecting forests and water resources | Establishment of sustainable water cycle |
| Sony Corporation | Promoting sustainable product design | Utilize green technology | Coexistence of natural environment and economy |
The activities of these companies demonstrate that it is possible to achieve both environmental conservation and economic development. For example, AEON Corporation’s “AEON Hometown Forests Program” is restoring local forests and promoting CO₂ absorption. In addition, Toyota Motor Corporation’s Nature-Symbiotic Factory is an initiative to increase production efficiency while protecting habitats for living creatures. Furthermore, Suntory Holdings Limited’s “Natural Water Forest” project is realizing a sustainable water cycle through water source conservation activities. Through proactive corporate initiatives, specific model cases are being formed that contribute to social development while protecting the natural environment.
Roles of Local Communities and Individuals
The actions of local communities and individuals are also essential to realize nature positivity.
Deepen understanding of biodiversity through participation in community events and environmental education programs.
Practice nature-friendly consumption behavior by choosing environmentally friendly products
Reduce environmental impact in daily life by recycling and saving energy
By accumulating these actions, we can build a sustainable future together.
Conclusion
Nature Positive is an important initiative that links our lives to the future of the Earth. The biodiversity conservation activities being promoted in Japan and around the world offer hope for the realization of a sustainable society. Each of us can take action to act in harmony with nature. For example, we can start by participating in local clean-up activities and choosing environmentally friendly products. We can also help spread the word by taking an interest in and sharing information about environmental conservation projects undertaken by companies and local governments. Companies, communities, and individuals must work together to continue to protect nature.
References
1.Ministry of the Environment “National Biodiversity Strategy 2023-2030
2.Ministry of the Environment “30 by 30 Road Map
3.Ministry of the Environment United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity official website
4.Aeon Corporation Aeon Biodiversity Policy
5.Toyota Motor Corporation Sustainability
6.Kao Corporation Basic Policy on Biodiversity
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