Environmental History of Kumamoto (1999-2023) ─ A Legacy of Water and Greenery for the Future

Environmental History of Kumamoto (1999-2023) ─ A Legacy of Water and Greenery for the Future

Since 1999, Kumamoto Prefecture has been working to create a sustainable society that balances environmental conservation and the local economy. 2003 saw the start of the Yatsushiro Eco-Port Initiative, which promoted waste recycling based at the Yatsushiro Port. 5,000 tons of waste is recycled annually, and by the 2020s, decarbonization is underway under the Carbon Neutral Port (CNP) concept. In collaboration with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (MLIT), a sustainable port model was developed, including the establishment of a hydrogen and ammonia import base.

In 2005, small-scale hydroelectric power generation began in Yamato Town (formerly Seiwa Village), supporting local energy supply. In the 2020s, however, climate change caused water volume fluctuations to increase, and securing stable power generation became an issue. As the facilities are aging, a new regional revitalization strategy utilizing eco-tourism is being sought.

In July 2020, torrential rains hit southern Kumamoto Prefecture, causing the Kuma River to overflow. Extensive damage occurred in Yatsushiro and Hitoyoshi cities, and 14 elderly people were killed at Senjuen, a special nursing home for the elderly. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism spent 20 billion yen to strengthen levees, and local governments strengthened evacuation support plans. Kumamoto City has been working on groundwater conservation since 1999 and established a groundwater conservation fund in 2008. 2023 survey showed that the groundwater level had risen 2 meters above the standard value, showing the results of conservation measures.

Oguni Town has also promoted wooden construction using locally produced Oguni cedar since 2001, and has built facilities such as the Oguni Dome. The town's efforts to both reduce environmental impact and promote the forestry industry have been the subject of nationwide inspection.

Kumamoto Prefecture continues to respond to climate change and natural disasters while promoting regional development that coexists with the environment. It will continue to take on the challenge of sustainable development that takes advantage of local characteristics.