Sustainable forest management in Morotsuka

Positive impact generated

Context

Morotsuka’s mosaic forests mix conifers, broadleaf trees, and evergreens, creating a unique ecosystem. Yet, labor shortages and forestry decline threaten their sustainable management and future resilience.

This project enhances CO₂ absorption through sustainable forest management, focusing on thinning and targeted reforestation. In Japan, declining timber prices and an aging workforce have led to forest abandonment. In Morotsuka, carbon credits provide new income, funding activities that preserve ecosystem services such as water recharge and disaster prevention. The mosaic forest, mixing cedars, oaks, chestnuts, and evergreens like camellia, is rare in Japan and supports rich biodiversity. By maintaining it, the project protects both nature and community livelihoods.

Gallery

Tutela Ambientale Jcredit Giappone Morotsuka 1 3x

Tutela Ambientale Jcredit Giappone Morotsuka 2 3x

Tutela Ambientale Jcredit Giappone Morotsuka 3 3x

Tutela Ambientale Jcredit Giappone Morotsuka 4 3x

Tutela Ambientale Jcredit Giappone Morotsuka 5 3x

Stakeholders and local partners

Who are the key stakeholders?

The project brings together local forestry companies, residents, and scientific experts. Revenue from credits supports job creation, attracting younger workers back into forestry. Saplings are grown from locally collected seeds, ensuring genetic diversity and ecological adaptation. The mosaic forest is also a cultural identity marker for the community, making local participation central to its success. Public authorities and technical partners oversee validation and reporting, ensuring transparency and replicability.

Project Developer:

Objectives and approach

Strengthen sustainable management in Morotsuka’s forests, increasing CO₂ absorption while preserving biodiversity, water resources, and the cultural landscape of the mosaic forest.

The objectives are threefold: boost CO₂ absorption, safeguard ecological functions such as biodiversity and water, and revitalize the forestry sector by creating new jobs. Carbon credits generate revenue that supports forest management and reduces abandonment. The mosaic forest becomes more resilient, ensuring ecological and social benefits for future generations.

The approach combines thinning interventions with replanting of native species adapted to the site. Carbon credit revenues are reinvested in management and workforce training. Local communities and forestry companies co-manage the forest, supported by expert knowledge. This ensures long-term sustainability while offering a replicable model for other Japanese rural areas facing similar challenges.