Japanese companies are developing a nature-friendly economy: Here’s how

Around the world, pressure is mounting to better protect nature. Japanese companies are rising to the challenge with the support of an international initiative aimed at redirecting financial flows toward more positive outcomes for nature.In this edition of Green Japan, Euronews journalist Damon Embling visits Château Mercian Mariko Vineyard and Winery to find out how it is building a nature-friendly business.

The vineyard, located near Ueda in central Japan, transformed an abandoned mulberry field. The winery manager explains to Damon how the meadows and plants have returned, creating natural habitats for insects, some of which are endangered.Damon also learns how the company takes a circular approach, composting grape-pressing residue and turning leftover vine shoots into a type of charcoal called biochar.

The vineyard and winery owner, Kirin Holdings Company, was one of the first 80 in Japan to participate in an international initiative launched by the Taskforce for Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD).It encourages businesses around the world to assess, report and act on nature-related risks and impacts. The overall goal is to produce more data for businesses and investors to help direct global capital towards more nature-positive outcomes.

Kirin environmental specialist highlights the importance of water and nature capital for the activity of vineyards and cellars, as part of the company’s TNFD commitment.In Tokyo, Damon also hears from a member of the TNFD working group about how global companies should help other companies explore nature-friendly pathways. A Tokyo professor stresses that creating business opportunities to protect nature is essential to changing the global economic system.