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JapanComposed of several large islands and thousands of smaller islands, Japan’s nearly 127 million people live in an area slightly smaller than California. The country holds an astounding array of biodiversity and has a remarkable 67 percent of its land forested -- all the while boasting the world’s number two economy.
Mountainous Japan is part of an area of the Pacific Ocean known as the “ring of fire.” Japan is home to an estimated ten percent of all known volcanoes in the world - the most famous of which is Mount Fuji, the highest point in Japan measuring 12,388 feet (3,776 meters) above sea level. In addition to volcanic activity, seismic tremors and tsunamis also number among natural threats to the archipelago’s delicate ecology.
Japan is home to an astounding array of biodiversity. The island nation contains over 5,000 higher plant species, 188 different mammal species, 250 types of birds, 61 amphibian species, 87 reptiles and 186 species of fish. To protect these creatures the country has 96 protected areas -- four of which are UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. Japan’s diverse climate ranges from sub-polar in the north to sub-tropical in the south. The forests vary according to region from broadleaf evergreens in the south, to broadleaf deciduous trees in central and northern Honshu and coniferous and deciduous trees such as Spruce and Fir to the north. Japan places high cultural value on the conservation of natural resources. In conjunction with the Rainforest Alliance and the Forest Stewardship Council, Japan has taken a massive step toward safeguarding forests. Yamanashi, one of Japan’s 47 governmental prefectures (regions) has worked with the Rainforest Alliance to become Japan’s first certified prefecture. Read the full story.
Sustainable forestry is a viable tool for ensuring the long-term health and vitality of Japan’s forests and the species that depend on them for survival. Coffee Sources and Further Reading
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