“Let’s keep green”
In 2010, the Daiwa House Group became the first Japanese house manufacturer to release a comprehensive Biodiversity Declaration. Ever since, the Group has been taking biodiversity into consideration in early project stages across its business activities. In 2021, we integrated our previous efforts and established a new group-wide green space promotion concept called “Let’s keep green”, and with it, we are taking on the challenge of becoming nature positive.
Urban areas continue to attract more people, causing residential developments to expand, which has led to concerns about the reduction and fragmentation of Japan’s unique natural environments. To address this situation, the Group is working to protect thriving green spaces for the next generation while minimizing its impact on ecosystems. By pursuing urban development in harmony with nature, we are helping to build ecosystem networks while creating high-quality communities.
Building green spaces with native species Creating two million square meters of ecological green space by 2030
A distinctive feature of the Daiwa House Group is its involvement in the creation of a large number of different facilities across Japan. As a community-focused business, we construct, manage, and operate a wide range of facilities, from homes and stores, to factories, offices, and logistics centers. By taking advantage of our position, we are working to create more green spaces, and making them larger and more accessible.
The ecosystems found in Japan vary according to the local geography. Accordingly, the Group has divided its business territory into nine regions based on the National Land Classification for Biodiversity Conservation created by the Ministry of the Environment. For each region, we have created a list of native species that have thrived there for a long time. By planting a variety of trees, including native species, based on the relevant list, and by improving habitats for local organisms, we are helping to create a network of vibrant ecosystems.
Source: National Land Classification Map for Biodiversity Conservation
(Created by Daiwa House Industry based on the draft map from the Ministry of the Environment)
Planting based on the local native vegetation and cultural heritage
(THE MIRAI KACHI KYOSO Center, Nara Prefecture)
Since ecosystems vary depending on the geographical region of Japan, planting native species in line with the regional classification ensures the sustainability of ecosystem networks.
The Group aims to create two million square meters of new ecological green space by 2030 (on a cumulative basis compared to fiscal 2012) by implementing biodiversity-responsive designs and urban development in all regions. In addition, for large-scale properties such as condominiums and logistics facilities, we are actively working to obtain ABINC certification from the Association for Business Innovation in harmony with Nature and Community, in order to demonstrate that we are creating green spaces and conserving biodiversity at an exceptional level in terms of both quantity and quality. We will create verdant green spaces in towns while respecting the local natural environment, and develop communities set in native landscapes for future generations to enjoy.
PREMIST Shonan Tsujido condominium project (Kanagawa Prefecture) *Sold
Mie Asahi Logistics Center built for Japan Transcity Corporation (Mie Prefecture)
30 by 30 initiatives Conserving biodiversity by collaborating with stakeholders
In collaboration with stakeholders such as civic groups, academics, and local residents, the Group is working to conserve biodiversity on our premises. The worldwide 30 by 30 initiative aims to conserve more than 30% of land and sea as protected natural areas by 2030, and is one of the measures to promote nature positivity. Based on this objective, we are carrying out continual ecosystem monitoring, while implementing conservation activities and environmental learning programs. In communities where we undertake conservation activities, we are working to obtain Natural Symbiosis Site certification from the Ministry of the Environment, while pursuing urban development that helps protect biodiversity. At the same time, based on the concept stated at the beginning of our Corporate Creed, “developing people through business,” we are working to promote social transformation and develop co-creative human resources who can collaborate with stakeholders to protect and nurture nature. By providing opportunities for various stakeholders to interact with nature, we aim to help build a world where humanity lives in harmony with nature by the year 2050.
Branch Kobe Gakuentoshi (certified as a Natural Symbiosis Site)
Mie Factory: Nature discovery activity
Solutions based on nature A multifaceted approach that takes advantage of the Group’s comprehensive strengths
We are also actively working on nature-based solutions, one of the targets set by the Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework. By adopting advanced technologies such as green infrastructure, we are helping not only to preserve biodiversity but also to enhance society’s resilience in the face of climate change.
Moreover, a Daiwa House Group company is involved in the management of urban parks, including Osaka Castle Park, as well as rooftop and wall greening projects. These vibrant green spaces, which change with the seasons, help refresh the minds and bodies of local residents while enriching their lives. We contribute positively to people's mental and physical health, while promoting stress reduction, well-being, and the maintenance of social and cultural connections.
Conserving fireflies using digital technology (Osaka Prefecture)
Omiya Traffic Park (Kyoto Prefecture)