Five nominees announced for Japan’s Future with Forest Sustainable Award 2025

Future with Forest Association has announced five nominees for its “Future with Forest Sustainable Award 2025”. The award honours creative ideas and businesses that promote a sustainable relationship between people and forests. The winners will be revealed at an awards ceremony at Kanda Myojin Hall in Tokyo on October 29.

The award was established to support new ventures that explore the diverse value of forest spaces, under the theme “The future we envision with forests in 100 years.” It aims to provide not just recognition but also business acceleration support in collaboration with corporate and regional partners. After receiving over 30 applications since its launch in June, a rigorous selection process determined the final five nominees.

The nominated projects represent a wide range of approaches to forest sustainability.

Code for Ground was nominated for its Soil Environment Open Data project. The initiative is developing a system for individuals and groups to measure and share data on water circulation, such as nitrogen oxides and pH levels. This open-data platform aims to visualise the health of ecosystems connecting mountains, villages and the sea, providing a scientific basis for conservation and land use planning.

The Meguru Mount Hiko Project by Yama to Meguri Association focuses on regional revitalisation and conservation. The project offers programmes that combine pilgrimage tours on the historic Mount Hiko with wellness experiences and participant-led tree planting to restore forests damaged by typhoons and deer.

Hyakumori Inc. is nominated for its Chainsaw Logging Tour, a three-day programme designed to teach the general public safe and effective tree-felling techniques. Based on official safety education standards, the tour aims to broaden the base of skilled individuals who can contribute to the management of Japan’s under-maintained artificial forests.

The Christmas Wreath Project to Protect Forests, by the Mori wo Mamoru Christmas Wreath Association, connects communities with forest conservation. The project runs workshops that use branches and vines from forest thinning to create wreaths. This utilises forest by-products and generates revenue and donations for ongoing conservation activities.

Heritage Keeper LLC is recognised for its Caring Forest programme. This initiative offers forest-based experiences, including forest bathing and green woodworking, designed for the well-being of professional and private caregivers. The programme provides a space for those who care for others to be cared for by nature, supporting mental and physical recovery.

The diversity of the nominees highlights the growing potential for sustainable business models centred on Japan’s rich forest resources. The award aims to foster these innovations, contributing to a future where society and forests can thrive together.