Shinjuku Gyoen's Green Space Effect - October 2024

Shinjuku Gyoen's Green Space Effect - October 2024

Shinjuku Gyoen's Green Space Effect and Current Situation
Located in Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo, Shinjuku Gyoen is a vast green space in the heart of the city, covering approximately 58.3 hectares. This green space plays a crucial role in mitigating the urban heat island effect. Recent studies have shown a temperature difference of about 3.5 to 5 degrees Celsius compared to the surrounding Shinjuku Station area, maintaining a cooler environment not only during the day but also at night. Particularly during the summer, this green space helps alleviate the extreme heat in urban areas, providing a comfortable environment for visitors.

According to 2023 data, the greenery in Shinjuku Gyoen absorbs approximately 1500 tons of CO2 annually, making it one of the top green spaces in Tokyo in terms of environmental impact. The park contains a diverse range of vegetation, including broadleaf and coniferous trees, which contribute to air purification and CO2 absorption in the urban environment. Notably, cherry and maple trees are widely planted, offering scenic beauty throughout the seasons.

In terms of environmental technology, Shinjuku Gyoen has adopted advanced initiatives. A joint project between Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) and Hitachi Landscaping Co., Ltd. involves the use of low-emission electric equipment for vegetation management. Additionally, solar panels were installed on some of the management buildings in 2019, supplying approximately 50 MWh of electricity annually, which is used for lighting and facility operations within the park. Furthermore, a rainwater recycling system has been implemented, utilizing collected rainwater for irrigation and toilet facilities.

Shinjuku Gyoen is positioned as a "model urban green space" by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Since 2020, it has been highlighted in international environmental conferences as part of the efforts for sustainable urban development. Thus, Shinjuku Gyoen continues to be recognized domestically and internationally as a model case for mitigating the heat island effect and reducing urban CO2 emissions.