MOE Adopts Three Proposals for 2012 Environmental Business Model Project

Japan's Ministry of the Environment (MOE) announced on June 7, 2012, the adopted project proposals for its fiscal 2012 Environmental Business Model Project. Since fiscal 2009, MOE has been implementing the project to support business-oriented non-profit organizations (NPOs) and social businesses that make efforts to revitalize their local communities through the use and conservation of locally available renewable energy and unused resources.

This year, MOE solicited project applications that met at least one of the three conditions: (1) The applicant organization mainly operates in the north-east (Tohoku) region and has a track record of activities; (2) The project aims at using local resources in the Tohoku region; or (3) The project is conducted through collaboration with specific private organizations in the Tohoku region. MOE adopted 3 proposals out of 17 applications.

One of the three adopted applications, the Higashinaruko Yume Kaigi (Higashinaruko Dream Council) aims at developing satoyama (areas of rich biodiversity near residential areas in the countryside) into a retreat for physical and mental relaxation. Another, the Japan Forest Biomass Network, proposes environmental education to drive reconstruction efforts after the Great East Japan Earthquake. Meanwhile, Fermenstation Co. plans to develop a system to recycle energy and livestock feed locally.

Each of the three organizations is required to carry out certain economic activities that help conserve the local environment and formulate a plan to develop its project into a financially independent business model.

Posted: 2012/09/17 06:00:00 AM