Why this is important to Wisconsin:
Wisconsin companies with expertise in water solutions or forest conservation may find opportunities in the market.
Japan’s forests are helping the country manage its supply of water.
Japan is a nation of more than 14,000 islands, but its water supply has been volatile since the 1960s.
Urbanization and rapid economic growth since World War II led to a significant increase in groundwater extraction, according to the World Economic Forum.
In addition, extreme heat, hurricanes, and earthquakes have exacerbated the problem as the trend has leaned toward less rainfall and more vulnerability to drought, according to the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs.
For example, in July 2024, private-sector inventories of rice fell to their lowest level since 1999, primarily because high temperatures and water shortages hampered the previous year’s crop, according to the Guardian news service. In 2023, Japan recorded its hottest September since records began 125 years ago.
Over the decades, Japan has passed laws to restrict excessive groundwater use, and now, more attention has focused on neglected forest land. The degraded forests have made it harder to replenish groundwater, prevent floods and landslides, and filter clean water. Forests cover 66% of Japan’s land, the government said.
Public-private collaborations have stepped in to help, according to the World Economic Forum. Suntory Natural Water Sanctuary, a program initiated by a leading Japanese beverage maker, Suntory Holdings, has been working with local communities and experts to conserve and restore forests and biodiversity around its factories. The areas are called “natural water forests” and include customized restoration plans and contracts of up to 100 years to ensure long-term success.
As of August 2024, the natural water forests covered nearly 30,000 acres over 24 locations throughout Japan.
Other companies are following the lead. In August 2024, Coca-Cola Japan signed a partnership agreement with the cities of Omaezaki and Kakegawa to begin a three-year water resource conservation project that will start in spring 2025.
Wisconsin companies involved in sustainability, water resources, or forest management could find interest in Japan.
