Local Reuse Forum promoting reuse and local revitalisation in Suwa

ReBuilding Center JAPAN Inc. will host the “Local Reuse Forum 2025” on October 14, an event dedicated to advancing community-based resource circulation. The forum aims to bring together practitioners and interested individuals to share knowledge and build networks around the reuse of building materials and salvaged goods.

Following the success of its inaugural event, which drew over 150 participants, the forum builds on feedback that it gave attendees the motivation to take action in their own communities and provided a space to meet like-minded people. This second iteration seeks to deepen the learning and connections through a programme of lectures, fieldwork and networking.

The day will feature a keynote speech by Mitsuhiro Yamazaki, representative of Green Cities and a visiting professor at Yokohama National University, who will speak on the theme of regional circulation. ReBuilding Center JAPAN co-founders Kanako and Tadafumi Azuno will also present, sharing the story of their organisation’s progress and its vision for the future.

A key component of the forum is the town walk, which offers a firsthand look at local projects involving the renovation of vacant houses and the creation of new shops. The walks are designed to convey the atmosphere and the changes in the town and daily life that cannot be captured in documents alone. Booths will also be set up for businesses from across the country, allowing attendees to hear firsthand accounts from practitioners and discuss potential collaborations.

The event serves as a platform for those engaged in the circular economy to connect theory with practice. By combining expert insights with tangible examples of regional revitalisation, the forum provides a valuable opportunity for participants to gain practical knowledge and inspiration for their own local initiatives.

The forum will be held at the ReBuilding Center JAPAN headquarters in Suwa City. Participation is capped at 100 people, with separate registration for a post-event networking party.