IHI Yokohama Tour Highlights Decarbonization and Biodiversity Conservation Efforts
IHI Yokohama Works, located along Negishi Bay in Yokohama’s Isogo Ward is home to the Corporate Research & Development Division, which undertakes R&D into ammonia combustion, carbon dioxide utilization, and other technologies to tackle global warming. In green spaces on the premises, workers conserve such species as the native Sugita Plum tree and three endangered orchid varieties. The site trials a “synecoculture” method, an agricultural practice that involves growing a dense mix of beneficial plants without tilling, pesticides, or fertilizers. The facility recently hosted tours for IHI employees and local elementary school students to raise awareness about decarbonization and biodiversity conservation initiatives.
A total of 25 employees took part in nature tours on June 25 and August 21. Experts from Sumitomo Forestry Landscaping Co., Ltd. were invited to conduct lectures on the unique potential of the Yokohama site’s natural environment, shaped by the surrounding environment and the relationship between the sea and mountains. Following the lecture, participants explored the green spaces around the premises. The experts provided fascinating insights, such as the origins of plant names and the symbiotic relationship between plants and insects. The employees left with a deeper appreciation for the facility’s lush natural surroundings.
On August 8, IHI Yokohama Works hosted a “Summer Vacation Corporate Bus Tour” for elementary and junior high school students from Isogo Ward for the second year. This visit, organized at the request of the Ward Administration Promotion Division, which fosters community engagement, selected 15 participants by lottery from a large pool of applicants. The tour began with IHI Yokohama employees informing them about global warming and biodiversity, followed by a detailed explanation about the IHI Group’s advanced ammonia combustion and carbon dioxide absorption and utilization technologies. The students then visited the facility’s program-controlled gas engine power plant. In the green spaces, an expert explained the site’s efforts to protect the Sugita Plum, an endangered orchid species and outlined its symbiotic farming practices.
The students found the visit very worthwhile. An article on the Isogo Ward website noted that one participant was particularly impressed with IHI’s measures to minimize carbon dioxide emissions. Another expressed their determination to integrate eco-friendly approaches into daily living.
IHI Yokohama Works remains committed to conserving the local ecosystem while pursuing environmentally friendly business activities. It will strengthen community engagement to deepen stakeholder understanding of its endeavors, aiming at becoming deeply rooted in the local community.