IHI Yokohama Headquarters Representative’s Office Recognized as Nationally Certified Sustainably Managed Natural Site
On September 16, 2025, the IHI Yokohama Headquarters Representative’s Office’s sustainably managed nature area was officially recognized as a Nationally Certified Sustainably Managed Natural Site. This certification was based on the Act on Promoting Activities to Enhance Regional Biodiversity, which was enacted in April 2025 and enshrined Nationally Certified Sustainably Managed Natural Sites in law. A certification ceremony was held on September 30 in Tokyo’s Sabo Kaikan.
The sustainably managed area was recognized for maintaining a “healthy ecosystem of diverse wildlife, primarily indigenous species” and expanding “spaces for rare wildlife to live and grow.”
Also this sustainably managed nature area has been confirmed as containing rare plants such as golden orchids and narrow-leaved helleborines, which are classified as vulnerable species. The site performs fixed observation and makes environmental improvements in order to protect this wildlife. A golden orchid, erect cephalanthera, and narrow-leaved helleborine-viewing tour was held for employees in spring so that they could experience the richness of nature.
The Yokohama Headquarters Representative’s Office also dedicates efforts to protecting the Sugita Plum, a rare species named after Sugita, Isogo Ward, that has not undergone selective breeding. By planting and raising Sugita Plum trees, it contributes to preserving the area’s cultural and ecological values. These activities deepen the site’s ties to the community and use the site grounds as a place for environmental education.
Part of the Yokohama Headquarters Representative’s Office’s sustainably managed nature area is called “i-Garden.” This area is testing the use of synecological farming in sustainably growing crops. “Synecological farming” is a farming method that creates a strong ecosystem by harnessing the power of living organisms, without tilling*1, fertilizer*2, or pesticides. We have confirmed that this farming method results in a greater diversity of plants and insect life.
- *1 No tilling: Crops are grown without tilling the soil
- *2 No fertilizer: The power of the soil itself is leveraged, without using fertilizer
IHI will continue its biodiversity protection activities and carry out business activities that are even more biodiversity-friendly to help create a world in which nature and technology work in unity.