What is the Satoyama Initiative?

The Satoyama Initiative is a global effort that started in Japan, aiming to promote a sustainable relationship between people and nature. It focuses on traditional rural landscapes that are a mix of farmlands, forests, and villages—what the Japanese call “satoyama.” The term “satoyama” itself refers to areas where people have been interacting with the environment for centuries in a way that supports both human livelihoods and a thriving natural ecosystem.

Where and when did Satoyama Initiative begin?

The Satoyama Initiative was launched in 2010 during a United Nations conference on biodiversity in Nagoya, Japan. Its main goal is to protect biodiversity and encourage sustainable land use in places where people live and work, not just in protected wilderness areas. It’s about finding balance: how can people live, grow food, and create economic opportunities without damaging nature?

The Satoyama Initiative encourages practices that combine modern techniques with traditional knowledge to benefit both people and the environment. It is supported by the Japanese government along with the United Nations University, aiming to spread this balanced approach beyond Japan and inspire sustainable living worldwide.

Examples of the Satoyama Initiative in action

Noto Peninsula, Ishikawa Prefecture

One of the successful examples of is found in the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture. This region is known for its unique agricultural system, where rice paddies are cultivated alongside forests and streams. Local farmers use traditional knowledge, such as managing water flow through terraced rice paddies, which not only supports agriculture but also provides habitats for a wide range of plants and animals. They even have “Satoyama Meisters” to start up nature-related businesses. Local communities here have restored abandoned rice terraces, thereby boosting biodiversity and providing food for both local consumption and tourism. (https://satoyama-initiative.org/case_studies/mainstreaming-satoyama-in-research-education-and-regional-collaboration-towards-the-revitalization-of-noto-peninsula/)

Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture

Another example can be seen in Toyooka City, where efforts are focused on reviving the habitat for the oriental white stork. This bird had disappeared from Japan due to habitat loss and pesticide use. Local farmers adopted organic farming practices, which supported the return of these storks to the area. By improving the balance between agriculture and nature, the community has not only helped bring the storks back but also improved the quality of the local environment. Find out more with our report of satoyama in Toyooka City here.

Sado Island, Niigata Prefecture

On Sado Island, traditional farming methods have been revived to support the crested ibis, an iconic bird species. Farmers made the transition to more nature-friendly methods, such as using fewer chemicals and creating “biotopes”—small wetland areas within rice fields—where the ibis can find food. This approach has improved local biodiversity while maintaining rice production, demonstrating how conservation and agriculture can go hand in hand.

Why does the Satoyama Initiative matter?

The Satoyama Initiative is important because it demonstrates that protecting nature isn’t just about keeping people away from it. Instead, it shows that people can be, and is, an active part of nature in a positive and regenerative way. By using traditional knowledge, supporting local communities, and encouraging responsible farming, this initiative provides the hint for both people and wildlife to thrive together.