Yamagata to Save CO2 Absorption by Forest Nurturing Program

Photo by Japan for Sustainability

Yamagata Prefecture, located in the northern part of Japan's main island, launched a special deposit system called "Kizuna-no-mori deposit" on June 6, 2010, at the 2010 forest festival hosted by the prefecture. With the system, participants in the forest nurturing program keep records of the set amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) absorbed individually by each activity, on the passbook issued by the prefecture. This system offers the participants a fun and sustainable approach, allowing them to enjoy the results of the activities.

Two kilograms of carbon dioxide are absorbed by planting a tree, and 5 kilograms per 10 square meters of cutting, thinning, or pruning of forest trees. These amounts are to be recorded in the passbook as saved amounts. The passbook also gives information, including the fact that a TV set emits 50 kg-CO2 per year and a refrigerator emits 200 kg-CO2 per year, helping people to set their target easily. Those who save 50 kg-CO2 or 100 kg-CO2 will be awarded with trophies. Those who save 1,000 kg-CO2 will be given a Forest Master certificate.

In 2010, the forest nurturing program is being implemented at "The Forest of Source" every weekend (daily during summer vacation) as a model project. Participants have commented that they are looking forward to the next activity, are looking forward to coming back to see their growth a few years later, and feel that the passbook is a good memento from this program.

Energy Saving Campaign in Yamagata Prefecture Cuts 90 tons of CO2 (Related JFS article)
http://www.japanfs.org/en/pages/026440.html

Posted: 2010/10/03 06:00:15 AM