Japanese businesses are under growing pressure to protect nature and promote sustainability, with an international framework supporting their efforts. A vineyard and winery in central Japan, Château Mercian Mariko, is leading the way in this movement. Once a barren mulberry field, the land has been transformed into a thriving ecosystem that provides a natural habitat for various insect species, including some that are endangered.
Château Mercian Mariko adopts a circular approach to waste management by composting remains from grape pressing and converting pruned vine branches into biochar. This not only minimizes waste but also contributes to the overall sustainability of the vineyard and winery. The vineyard is among the 80 early adopters in Japan of a global framework launched by the Taskforce for Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD). This framework encourages businesses to assess and report on their nature-related risks and impacts, ultimately aiming to drive capital towards more positive outcomes for nature.
Kirin Holdings Company, which owns Château Mercian Mariko, recognizes the importance of water and nature capital to its vineyard and winery business. An environmental specialist from Kirin emphasizes this point when speaking with Euronews reporter Damon Embling in Tokyo. Meanwhile, a TNFD taskforce member stresses the need for global companies to support others in exploring nature-positive practices. Additionally, a Tokyo professor highlights the importance of creating business opportunities that protect nature as a fundamental step towards transforming the global economic system.
The efforts of Château Mercian Mariko serve as an example of how businesses can take action towards sustainability while also contributing to conservation efforts. With increasing pressure on businesses worldwide to protect nature, it is clear that companies must adopt sustainable practices if they want to remain competitive in today’s marketplace.