Environmental Report 2017

JAE Group Forest

　In 2004, we established the JAE Group Forest, which we have nurtured by planting trees and maintained as a symbol of environmental management. *1
　It is here that Group employees can obtain environmental awareness through their experiences in the forest. It is also a place where the Group can contribute to the protection of biodiversity (click here to read our Declaration on Biodiversity Initiatives) absorption of greenhouse gas (CO2), and replenishment of the watershed.

*1: Thus far, 534 Group employees have planted trees, cleared underbrush where saplings grow, and placed nets to protect against damage from deer. Work was also done to remove vines that were impeding tree grow by clinging to trunks and branches.
*2: The Akishima cherry tree (Prunus cv. Yoko), which blooms with large deep red-purple blossoms, is the name used by the Akishima City Tree Planting Promotion Association.

  As a part of training for new employees that just entered the company, 40 took part in work to preserve forests in fiscal 2016. With the Tokyo Development Foundation for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries explaining the multifaceted functions of forests, and the Tokyo Forestry Union providing instruction, participants gained a deeper appreciation of forest preservation activities by helping to clear underbrush, maintain foot trails, sharpen sickles, and thin trees. 

◆Protecting biodiversity

　Twelve years have passed since the establishment of the JAE Group Forest. The trees that employees have planted have now grown to some three meters high. In early spring, the Akishima cherry, Magnolia kobus and the mountain cherry trees bloom, and in the fall, autumn colors can be enjoyed. As the trees grow, other plants and birds have begun to appear.

Please see the following photograph. Near the JAE Group Forest is the Akishima Citizens' Forest in Okutama, where these animals were photographed. (Photos courtesy of Tokyo Development Foundation for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries)

The JAE Group Forest is a symbol of environmental management. Starting with the basics, namely forest protection, replenishment of the watershed, absorbing CO2, and protecting biodiversity, the Group will foster environmental awareness among employees by providing hands-on learning opportunities, while continuing to nurture the forest as a cornerstone of its environmental activities.