World Major Afforestation Plan and Desertification Prevention - From 1997 to the 2020s

World Major Afforestation Plan and Desertification Prevention - From 1997 to the 2020s

In 1997, as desertification became a critical global issue, the "World Major Afforestation Plan" was proposed with the goal of reversing trends by 2010. The plan aimed to prevent ecosystem destruction and soil degradation caused by deforestation while establishing a sustainable environment. Activities were promoted especially in Africa's Sahel region and Asia's inland arid areas, with notable afforestation projects in Nigeria and Mongolia.

In Japan, urban rooftop greening and satoyama (traditional rural landscapes) restoration projects progressed, such as those in the Yoshino area of Nara Prefecture. Companies like Sumitomo Forestry and Mitsubishi Estate actively participated, focusing on planting species like cedar and cypress to enhance carbon dioxide absorption efficiency. Furthermore, the Agricultural and Environmental Technology Research Institute in Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, advanced research on salt-tolerant tree species to strengthen adaptation in desertification-prone areas.

Entering the 2020s, desertification remained a global challenge, with the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) reporting that approximately 12000000 hectares of land are lost annually to desertification—equivalent to 23 hectares disappearing every minute. This alarming rate underscores the urgency of action.

In response, Japanese companies have implemented concrete measures. Toyota Boshoku Corporation planted approximately 80000 saplings in the Horqin Desert of Inner Mongolia from 2013 to 2020. Itochu Corporation carried out afforestation on approximately 250000 hectares in Brazil, of which around 130000 hectares were utilized as forest restoration areas.

Additionally, Japan's Ministry of the Environment implemented a model project in Mongolia's Gobi region to enhance the climate change adaptation capacity of nomadic communities, focusing on developing sustainable pasture management methods. These initiatives are highly regarded for contributing not only to desertification prevention but also to increased carbon dioxide absorption and biodiversity conservation.

Meanwhile, the pace of desertification remains high, demanding greater international cooperation. Efforts combining technological innovation and region-specific measures are underway to achieve a sustainable future.