Conserving Japan’s forests one holiday wreath at a time

In its third year to safeguard Japan’s forests for future generations, Forest Protection Christmas Wreath Association’s “Christmas Wreath Project” has been using branches and leaves collected during forest conservation activities to create holiday wreaths, while raising awareness and support for reforestation and lumberjack activities. The project, which operates on a crowdfunding model, encourages people to directly contribute to the health of Japan’s forests by purchasing these wreaths.

The initiative’s wreath kits include branches of cedar and cypress, pine cones, wire, and bases, all sourced from sustainable forest maintenance. Backers can choose between kits to make their own wreath or a completed wreath ready to hang. The key feature is the flowers, Kanna Flowers, which are wood shavings from the wood. There are also options to purchase materials for multiple wreaths, suitable for family workshops or community gatherings. All proceeds are directed towards covering material costs, shipping, reforestation efforts, and supporting lumberjack activities.

The Christmas Wreath Project aims to address a crisis facing Japan’s forests. Despite covering 70% of the country’s land area, many Japanese forests are aging without sufficient new growth, partly due to the decline in domestic lumber demand and a shrinking forestry workforce. Meanwhile, global warming and wildfires are compounding pressures on forests globally, and Japan not being immune. The project aims to raise awareness about these issues and directly involve the public in sustaining forest health by engaging them in festive creativity.

Maya Hirota, a floral artist involved with the project, explained her passion, stating, “The Christmas Wreath Project is about connecting people to nature, while making something beautiful for their homes. It’s a way for all of us to become stewards of the forests, even in a small way.”

With each wreath made, the Christmas Wreath Project supports reforestation, lumberjack activities, and helps raise awareness about Japan’s vulnerable forests. If you are interested in supporting the project, the project is currently crowdfunding on Syncable.