We aimed for increased taro root production by protecting crops from pests without using agrochemicals.
We are spreading stationary organic farming while teaching about the risks of excessive slash-and-burn farming and deforestation. To achieve this, we searched for effective methods of controlling pests that eat taro, a local staple. Fields where measures were applied achieved 20% reduction in damage. For rice production, we introduced a Japanese rice milling machine compatible with local rice, which has improved farmer productivity.
Delivering environmental education while creating a green belt. Our Pilot Shop has achieved a profit.
This is a project that aims to balance environmental conservation with economic prosperity, through operating vocational training schools in rural areas. The work to create a green belt has finished, so last year the focus moved to maintenance. Despite suffering cyclone damage early in the New Year, we were able to overcome this setback. Our pilot shop also continues to be profitable. We have our sights set on production and sales of products based on cocoa beans.
Overcoming bad weather conditions to surpass target for coastline mangrove planting.
Kiribati government expectations towards the mangrove forest planting project increase year by year. Unfortunately, however, in the first half of FY2018, we had mechanical problems with the local airplane, and in the second half, suffered from bad weather. As a result, we were unable to achieve the scheduled planting in some areas. Instead however, we planted significantly more than was planned, around the Tarawa atoll. We intend to further encourage participation by local youth in the future.
Mangrove planting reaches 2.7 times the target. Fostering environmental consciousness among islanders.
For small island nations like Tuvalu, rising sea levels triggered by global warming are a life-and-death issue. Mangrove planting is a vital initiative that is expected to have a positive impact on global warming and coastal erosion. At the Funafuti atoll near the capital, we planted as many as 27,000 saplings under the harsh sun. We also had local volunteers participate right from the seed collection stage so they could learn the whole process.
Nurturing cold-resistant seedlings in the harsh Himalayan mountain environment.
To reach Sama village, located at an altitude of 3500m, takes one day by car from the capital of Nepal, and then a one-week walk. The project to restore its former forests is in its third year. Last year we were finally able to plant the seedlings that had been raised from seeds. We are continuing to raise seedlings to enable ongoing afforestation. We have also received the heartening news that local villagers who are taking an interest in this activity will become assistants.
Native species resistant to strong winds, and edible fruit trees. The trees being nurtured are protecting livelihoods.
The Philippines lies in the path of powerful typhoons almost annually, so trees need to withstand strong winds. The Eco Card Fund has been supporting forest creation with a focus on native species adapted to the local climate, as well as fruit trees that will boost dietary needs. We have also received reports that when the planted trees take root, the soil binds together, reducing landslides. We intend to broaden our activities to further regenerate natural forest.
Cooperating with villagers to build beehives. Pollination by raised bees contributes to forest growth.
In recent years, northwestern Thailand has experienced a rapid loss of tropical rainforests. To restore the forests, we have commenced a project called "afforestation without planting". This project involves raising Asian honey bees, which promote flowering tree pollination and helps the formation of seeds. We have taken the first step by building hives together with local ethnic minorities, the Akha and Lisu hill tribes. This activity will also link to the creation of an apiculture industry.
