Environmental Report 2012

JAE Group Forest

The JAE Group Forest was established as a symbol of the group's environmental policies in order to improve environmental awareness by providing experiences in forest preservation for group employees, including the protection of the Okutama forest and its watershed.     
Some 3,500 trees were planted there including some that provide beautiful seasonal color such as Prunus jamasakura (Mountain Cherries), Acer mono (Painted Maple), and Magnolia kobus, and others that are native to Okutama forest and provide food for the animals that live there, including Quercus serrata, Japanese zelkova, Japanese horse chestnut, Japanese walnut, and Japanese cypress. This is expected not only to protect the forest, but also to help preserve the biodiversity there.
Thus far, more than 330 employees have planted trees, cleared underbrush where saplings grow, and placed nets for protecting against damage from deer. Work was conducted to remove vines that were impeding tree growth by clinging to trunks and branches. 

On opening day
Today

Eight years have passed since the inauguration of the JAE Group Forest, and the trees planted by the employees have grown from around 2 meters to 3 meters today. In early spring, Magnolia kobus and Japanese cherry produce flowers, while in fall, a certain amount of autumn color can already be enjoyed. As the trees grow, other plants and birds have begun to appear. 

In spring
In fall 
Butcher-bird that impaled their prey on a thorn
A Japanese serow encountered in the adjacent forest

Protecting forests and water sources helps countless forms of life thrive, and in addition to this focus on activities related to biodiversity, JAE is positioning this program as a symbol of its environmental policies.

Overview of JAE Group Forest

Location Aza Osawairi, Hikawa, Okutama-machi
Area 1.33ha
Overview •A third-party profit-sharing afforestation agreement between the JAE Group, forest owners, and Tokyo Development Foundation for Agriculture, Forestry and Fishery
•Term: Fifty years starting in 2004
•Tree types: Japanese cypress and broadleaf trees, such as Japanese cherry, painted maple, Magnolia kobus, konara oak, zelkova, horse chestnut and Manchurian walnut.