2

2/3 OF JAPAN IS COVERED WITH FORESTS

CREATING A LAND OF GREENERY.

1.

■ JAPANJapan is located at the eastern edge of the Eurasia, between longitudes of 123 and 149 degrees and latitudes of 24 and 46 degrees. It is an archipelago extending over approximately 3,000 km from the Northeast to the Southwest and land area of about 380,000 square kilometers. In general, the topography is very steep.Mountains ranging from 2,000-3,000 meters high form a rugged backbone through the center of the country.

■ The Distribution of Japan’s Forests

■ Effects of Altitude on VegetationThe example of Norikuradake mountain(3,026m)

Japan has a wet monsoon climate and experiences distinct seasonal changes between the four seasons of spring, summer, autumn and winter. Also, meteorological conditions vary because of the latitudinal difference, dividing the forests into six types. Moreover, since high mountains range through the center of the country, it is possible to find vertical variation in forest types even in areas at the same latitude. Thus the forests are extremely rich in variation.

Varietry of Forests Range from Sub-tropical forests to Alpine Forests.

1.FOREST

RESOURCES

Atpine zone

Sub-frigid forest

Cool temperate coniferous forest

mixed with broad-leaved trees

Cool temperate forest

Warm temperate forest

Sub-tropical forestSub-frigid forest

Sub-tropical forest

132° 136° 140°

32°

36°

40°

44°

3000m

2000m

1000m

Pinus pumilaBetula Ermanii

Abies Mariesii

Abies homolepis

Abies Veitchii

Fagus crenata

Cyclobalanopsis spp.(ever green oak).

Abies firma

3

2/3 OF JAPAN IS COVERED WITH FORESTS

CREATING A LAND OF GREENERY.2.

3.

■Forest Cover in some selected Countries

■Current land use in Japan(unit:10,000ha)Approximately 10 million hectares of plantations have been established since the end of World War II for the rehabilitation of degraded land and for meeting domestic timber demand. Felling is restricted in fragile areas for both plantation and natural forests which play a crucial role for protection of Public benefits and services.Approximately 64% of plantations are less than 40 years old and therefore need sustained tending.

2/3 of the Land is Covered with Forests ofwhich 41% Consists of Plantation

In terms of land area, Japan is one of the most densely-forested countries in the world.However, due to a high population, forest area per capita is relatively low.

Among temperate countries, only Finland surpasses Japan in terms of ratio of forest cover. But because of its large population, the forest area per capita is a mere 0.2 hectare or about one-third of the global average.

■Transition of forest area　and growing stock

0.0

5.0

10.0

15.0

20.0

25.0

30.0

35.0

40.0

45.0

50.0

1966 1976 1986 1995 2002 2007Total growing stock ofnatural forest

Total growing stock ofman-made forest

0

500

1000

1500

2000

2500

3000

Total area of naturalforestTotal area of man-madeforest Source : Forestry white Paper 2010

5.6 8.013.6

18.923.4

26.513.3

13.9

15.0

15.9

17.017.8

1724 15891504

1475

1476 1338

793 9381022 1040

1036 1035

5.6 8.013.6

18.923.4

26.513.3

13.9

15.0

15.9

17.017.8

1724 15891504

1475

1476 1338

793 9381022 1040

1036 1035

Total Growing Stock of Forest

（Million m3）

Total Area of Forest（10,000ha）

0.0 20.0 40.0 60.0 80.0

0 400,000200,000 600,000 800,00072.9

29.031.8

49.468.5

21.962.3

52.148.3

23.014.7

42.168.0

37.762.4

54.553.1

34.133.2

19.4

31.0

22,15715,95411,076

809,09024,979

206,86120,456

94,43231,77368,434

11,33419,916

154,13533,428

519,52260,49967,992

310,134304,022

149,300

1,000,000FinlandFrance

GermanyRussiaJapanChina

MalaysiaIndonesiaMyanmar

IndoTurkey

CameroonDR.CongoTanzaniaBrazil

ColombiaPeru

CanadaUSA

AustraliaWorld.Ave

Source : Forestry white Paper 2010

Ratio of forest cover (%)Forest area (mil.ha)

Warm temperate forest

Cool temperate forest

Japanesecedar,

Sugi Cyptomeriajaponico

forest2,510(68.4%)

Land area3,779(100.0%)

Forest

Wilderness

Areble land &Pasture

Water body

Road

Building &housing lot

Other

312185

132134

478

28

Note: The area of forest is not same as one in the next graph due to the difference of definition of forestSource: Land White Paper 2007, Ministry of Land and Transportation

Source: Forestry white Paper 2011

Source: Global Forest Resources Assesment 2010(FAO)

4

THE PUBLIC FUNCTIONS OF FORESTS ARE BECOMING

INCREASINGLY IMPORTA NT.

2.THE PUBLIC BENEFIT OF FORESTS

At an average, 1,700mm per annum rainfall in Japan is two times the global average. The normal rainy season occurs from June to July, while typhoon risk is greatest in September. Mountain ranges comprising the central backbone of the country occupy 70% of the land area. Downstream run-off from this rugged terrain leads to frequent floods and landslides. This condition is further exacerbated by damage from volcanoes. Japan has 83 volcanoes, accounting for 10% of all active volcanoes in the world.

An avarage of 10 typhoons per year strike Japan which lies directly in the path of these violent tropical storms originating near the equator. The intense rainfall from typhoons causes enormous damage to life, homes and public infrastructure. For instance, a record of 5,000 lives were lost during a typhoon which struck Japan in 1959.

Cyclic forest For example,if 20 year old trees are harvested as fuel wood, only one twentieth of the forest land area would be cut in one year so the forest could be utilized with a 20 year harvest cycle.

Community forestry Villagers cooperated to utilize their forests whthin sustainable limits.

Japan is said to have been created as a result of orogenic movement and volcanic activity occurring repeatedly over hundreds of millions of years. The country is located where the ocean plates dive under the continental plates, often resulting in violent movements of the earth’s crust. From 10 to 50 earthquakes each year are intense enough to be felt by the people. ln 2011, Tohoku district along the Pacific ocean was hit by the great power of earthquake and tsunami in which approximately 20,000 people lost their lives.

Living under conditions of steep topography, high rainfall and frequent earthquakees, the people of Japan have long developed a keen appreciation of the direct role of forests in mitigating natural disaster.Protection of upstream forests receives ver y high priority, especially amongst farmers dependent on irrigation water and plant nutrient outflows of healthy forest ecosystems. Realizing the crucial importance of forests, management systems have evolved that are consistent with the concept of sustained yield, striking a healthy balance between forest extraction and the capacity to regenerate both goods and services.

1.

2.

Japan is exposed to earthquakes, typhoons and tsunami.Forests perform an indispensable role in safeguarding human life, property and soil against these natural disasters.

■ The Concept of Sustained Yields

■ Typhoon Routes ■ The Structure of the Earth's Crust　 In the Japan Region

Japan has preserved its land while utilizing the forests effectively for centuries.

Typhoon

The Equator

Example of Cyclic Forest

Fellingthis year

One yearlater

Five yearslater

Ten yearslater

Twenty years lateror possible felling

Community forestry in old days

Up to one basket

of fallen leaves

Felling

100 fag-gots of firewood

per family

5

THE PUBLIC FUNCTIONS OF FORESTS ARE BECOMING

INCREASINGLY IMPORTA NT.

■ Various protection forests are safeguarding the people's livelihood.The term “protection forests” refers to areas specifically set aside by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries or by prefectural governments to conserve water and wildlife, prevent soil erosion and landslides and protect the living environment. lnfringement of the rules governing protection forests, such as prohibitions against felling, are punishable under the law which is vigorously enforced. Concurrently tax exemptions compensation for loss due to restriction in forest management and other incentives are provided to promote forest conservation

■ Implementation of soil conservation work has been intensified, particularly in sites where 　some degraded land or mountain streams have the potential for causing disaster.Construction of check dams and hillside work are the principal soil conservation activities.Tree planting, combined with appropriate construction measures, are being carried out for ecological restoration and also to stimulate awareness and interest in the conservation of forests. The forests established as part of this process are managed as protection forests.Check dams - Structures are built to prevent the collapse of slopes, especially adjacent to mountain streams and where the dangers of avalanche and disastrous rocks or mud slides are prevalent.Hillside work - Appropriate structures are built to conserve soil. thus supporting complementary reforestation and helping ensure successful establishment of tree cover, while concurrentry reducing the risk of slides and related disasters.

■ Types of Protection ForestConservation of water resource Prevention against tidal damage Fire breakControl of erosion and sedimentation Drought control Conservation of fisheries resourcePrevention against land collapse Snow break Contribution to navigationControl of shifting sand Fog break Contribution to public healthWind break Control of avalanche Contribution to scenic beautyFlood control Prevention against falling rocks

The history of organized initiatives to conserve forests dates back to the beginning of the Edo Era (1600’s) with the designation of specific forest areas for water conservation and sand stabilization. Official orders were issued placing restrictions on felling and exploitation in order to prevent forest degradation. The struggle to conserve forests was sustained through the centuries and eventually gave bir th to the Forest Law enacted in 1897 establishing a nation-wide forest protection system.Seventeen (17) public interest criteria serve as the basis for establishment of protection forests.

According to the “Census on Forest and Life” by Cabinet Office implemented in December 2011, the highest concern on forest is shown in prevention of disaster such as land collapse and flooding, and then in mitigation of global warming which was the highest concern in the former census (four years ago). Expectation to timber production function is increased to 24% from 15% in former census.

3.

4.

Enactment of the Forest Law about 100 years ago stregthened the legal framework for systematic preservation and tending of forests to protect the livelihood of the people

People’s concern on forestincreasingly diversified

■ Total Area of Protection Forest

■ People's expectation for forest

Source: Cabinet Offce 2011

National forest6,875,000 ha

Total : 11,964,000 haSource : Forestry white Paper 2010

Non-national forest5,089,000 ha

Japanesecypress, Hinoki

Chamoecyporisobivsa

48

45

41

37

0 20 40 60

28

24

21

19

13Production of various forest products percentage(%)

Production of timber

Provision of learning opportunity on forest

Provision of wildlife habitat

Relaxation of mind and body

Purification of air

Conservation of Water Resources

Prevention against Land Collapse

Mitigation of Global Warning

Source: Forestry white Paper 2011

6

TO ENSURE SUSTAINABLE DIVERS

ARE BEING APPLIED, BASED ON

3.FOREST

MANAGEMENTSYSTEM

1. 2.The Forest Planning System of Japan creates a framework forforest development and management,with long-term visions

Various kinds of forestmanagement systems arebeing practiced consistentwith forest utilizationobjectives.Forests grow very slowly and if degradation occurs, restoration is

a difficult, time-consuming process. Thus, a long-term view and sustained commitment are essential. The Basic Plan of Forest Resources establishes long-term targets at the macro-level which include both directions and technological guidelines. In addition, plans are formulated by national, prefectural and local authorities, and private forest owners.

■ lntensively managed forestSingle storey forestIntensive management is applied in both natural and man-made forests. The final result is a stand of trees with relatively uniform height and spacing. Harvesting is done in small clear-cut paches surrounded by intact forest cover.

■ System of Forest Planning

■Basic Plan for Forest and Foresyry

■ Distinctive forestry in several places in JapanDistinctive forestry has been developed, making certain sites famous for their loally-unique features.Because of the many uses for wood in the Japanese culture, the technical know-how on proper use has

Kitayama Forestry(Kyoto prefecture)...cedar...planted specifically to produce decorative poles 5,000 trees are planted per hectare, with an equivallent harvesting target of 5,000 trees. Heavy pruning results in logs having almost uniform diameter from top to bottom. The poles are used for columns to decorate the cor-ners of rooms. Production of these high-quality decorative poles has been practiced in this area since ancient times.

(Miyazaki prefecture)...cedar...warm moist conditions result infast-growth and early maturity. Forests in this watershed produce low-priced timber that is mached with the homo geneity and large volume processing approach pursued in Miyazaki. Downstream linkage is provided through an integrated timber supply organization covering everything from logging to milling, distribution and sales.

Forestry in Mimikawa Watershed

Forest and Forestry Basic Plan (Government)Direction and aims of long term and overall policy for forests and forestry by the Government.

Nation-wide Forest Plan. (Minister of MAFF)Direction of national policy regarding whole forests for 15 years. Revised every 5 years.

Regional Forest Plan for Non-national Forest (Governor of Prefecture)Direction of prefectural policy regarding non-national forests. Including target of falling, reforestation, construction of forest road, protection forest, etc. for 10 years. Revised every 5 years.

adju

stm

ent

Regional Management Plan for National Forest(Director of Regional Forest Office)10 years plan of felling, reforestation. construction of forest mad, protection forest, etc. in national forest. Revised every 5 years.

Forest Management Plan for Non-National Forest (Private forest owner)Private forest owners may prepare 5 years forest management (including felling, reforestation, etc.) plan which is approved by the Mayor of minicipality. Revised every 5 years.

Municipal Forest Improvement Plan (Mayor of municipality)Direction of municipal policy regarding non-national forests. Guideline for felling, reforestation, etc. for 10years. Revised every 5 years.

Source : Forest and Forestry Basic Plan (2011 Revised)

0

Year 2005

Annual increment (million m3)

Area and Growing Stock

Year 2010

Year 2015

Year 2020

Year 2030

Final Goal

6,0005,0004,0003,0002,0001,000

20 40 60 80 100

Intensive single storey forest （10,000ha）

660

1,000

1,020

1,030

1,030

1,030

680

200

140

120

100

90

1,170

1,310

1,350

1,360

1,380

1,380

5,450

5,380

5,200

4,930

4,690

4,340

54

55

61

68

74

81

Intensive multi- storey forest （10,000ha）

Natural forest （million m3）

Total growing stock（million m3）

Total annual increment（million m3）

7

E FOREST MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

SYSTEMATIC FOREST PLANNING.Reforestation and forest maintenance have been part of the Japanese culture for over 400 years, and in some areas for as long as 600 years. Ten (10) million hectares of plantations established after World War II are now approaching maturity.Multi-storey forest management places emphasis on a low-impact harvest system which helps ensure that mountainsides are not denuded, Rationalmanagement of natural forests, combined with diverse systems, provide environmental benefits.

been flourished. Certain areas have become reputed for their high-value timber with special qualities.

The Forest and Forestry Basic Law&The Forest LawAmong various laws which have been enacted in relation to forestry up to the present time, the most important are “The Forest and Forestry Basic Law”, which clarified the fundamental policy objectives in relation to the development of forestry, and ”The Forest Law” which is the law constituting the core of forestry legislation. The forest planning system is based on these laws.

Multi-storey forestForests are selectively harvested and result in the development of mixed stands of trees having different heights and more than one species, consistent with the “Intensive Management System for Multi-storey Forests”

■ Natural forest The Natural Forest Management System aims at preserving the inherent vitality and bio-diversity of indigenous species, primarily to achieve environmental objective. For instance, felling is controlled for protecting land surface, natural environment and species composition (Natural Forest Management System maintains and supplements exsiting conifers such as pine and fir, in addition to numerous hardwood species such as beech and oak.)

Hokkaido’s natural forest management systemCareful selecting cutting has developed vigorous, healthy mixed species forests containing both hardwood and conifers such as spruce, fir, oak, ach, etc. Methods are models of the boreal forests management of a Shelterwood System.

Yoshino Foresty(Nara prefecture)...cedar, cypress...A danse spesing with as many as 10,000 trees planted per hectare has kept growth in check. This forest is producing high quality timber with narrow age rings.

Imasu Foresty(Gifu prefecture)...cedar, cypress...Harvesting is done when girths attein a prescribed size, followed immediately by replanting. There is no cleae-cutting. The resulting stand contains trees ranging from 1 to 100 years. Good quality timber has been produced since 200 years ago.

Aomori Thujopsis Forest management systemMufti-storey forests have been developed through application of a selective cutting system for Thujopsis which is one of the most durable conifers orisination in Japan. Sustainable management dates back to early times. The area is famous for the natural beauty of its “Femelwald” forest.

Japanesehemlock,

TsugaTsuga Sieboldii

Hokkaido

Tokyo

Kyushu

JAPAN

Japanesehemlock,

Tsuga

8

IN JAPAN THE EFFICENT AND CAREFUL USE OF WOOD

IS IMPORTANT CULTURAL HERITAGE.The construction of traditional Japanese wooden housesutilizes techniques which combine the best use of thestrength and beauty of wood.

1.

3.

2.Horyuji, the world’s oldest wooden buildingis still in existence.

The annual timber demand in Japan is approximately70 million cubic meters of which 70% is imported timber.

It can be said that traditional Japanese wooden houses are built following a traditional construction method called the “pole and beam system”. These methods use wood to build the skeleton structure of pillars, beams, girders, bracing and so on. 1,000 small pieces are used just to assemble the frame, and the most suitable quality t imber is chosen for each part. Numerous openings are incorporated in the design to accommodate the high humidity of the Japanese climate.

Japan is heavily dependent on the imported timber supply for various reasons. However the self sufficiency ratio has been recently increasing.

The timber demand is approximately 70 million cubic meters in 2010, which has been decreasing in recent years mainly due to recession of economy. Among the total timber demand, the largest is plywood, 46% and the next is lumber for sawn timber, 36%.

■ Horyuji - the oldest wooden building existing in the world.

During the Asuka and Nara period (607-793) when the foundations of the Japanese nation were first consolidated, the development of techniques for the efficient use of wood flourished. Many large wooden buildings were constructed one after another, with timber from trees estimated to be 1,000 years old. Furthemore, no nails or iron fittings were used in construction.

■ Trend of Timber Demand

Horyuji, built approximately 1,300 years ago, still exists today in Nara.

4.THE CULTURE

OF WOOD AND THEUTILIZATION OF

TIMBER

0.0

2,000.0

4,000.0

6,000.0

8,000.0

10,000.0

12,000.0

1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010

othersPlywoodWood chipLumber

Source : Forestry white Paper 2010

4,453.9 5,388.7 5,038.4 4,094.6

3,290.1 2,538

2,291.54,134.4 4,492.2

4,218.6

3,760.8

3,235

1,121.7

1,454.6 1,431.4

1,382.5

1,258.6

956

423.0

138.5 230.2

230.6

276.3

4,453.9 5,388.7 5,038.4 4,094.6

3,290.1 2,538

2,291.54,134.4 4,492.2

4,218.6

3,760.8

3,235

1,121.7

1,454.6 1,431.4

1,382.5

1,258.6

956

423.09,290

138.511,116

230.211,192

230.69,926

276.38,586

2967,025

1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 20100.0

2,000.0

4,000.0

6,000.0

8,000.0

10,000.0

12,000.0

0.0

10.0

20.0

30.0

40.0

Self sufficiency raito

Source : Forestry white Paper 2011

3,307.4 2,936.9 2,291.6 1,802.2 1,717.6 1824

2,982.7

35.6

26.4

20.5

18.2

20.0

27.8

8,179.38,900.6

8,124.16,868.1

5202

3,307.4 2,936.9 2,291.6 1,802.2 1,717.6 1824

2,982.7

35.6

26.4

20.5

18.2

20.0

26.0

8,179.38,900.6

8,124.16,868.1

5202

Imported timberDomestic timber

Source: Forestry white Paper 2012

Source: Forestry white Paper 2012

9

IN JAPAN THE EFFICENT AND CAREFUL USE OF WOOD

IS IMPORTANT CULTURAL HERITAGE.

4.

The construction of traditional Japanese wooden housesutilizes techniques which combine the best use of thestrength and beauty of wood.

Reverence for nature, global environmental issues and health concerns are encouraging a renewed interest in the merits of wood.

Pillars exposed as interiors are special of Japanese houses. This responds to a keen appreciation of the beauty and sense of peace conveyed by the texture, natural color and placement of wood pillar and studs on wall surfaces.

Plastic, concrete, iron and other artificial materials have become a dominant feature of construction in Japan over the last 30 to 40 years. In recent times however, a growing concern over the use of finite resources is propelling a trend toward greater reliance on wood because it is a renewable resource. Planting and use of wood to satisfy the basic human need for shelter also has important environmental dimentions such as the fixation of CO2 to mitigate global warming,while concurrently helping ensure the harmony with nature. For instance, the sence of calmness that pervades when one is surrounded by natural materials such as wood has a profound influence on emotions and psychological well-being including mental health. Wood’s practical advantages of ability to adjust to changes in humidity, moderate elasticity, insulation and sterilization properties, combined with the intangible but important benefits one gains by simply touching a smooth wooden surface, and deriving pleasure from the beauty of its grain and color.

■ Techniques which make the best use of timber have been put together in traditional wooden houses. The traditional home construction method

■ Interiors of Japanese rooms

Wood used for ceilingsTimber whose texture and color match is beautiful, includes cedar, cypress, Paulownia, cherry, Zelkova, etc.Wood used for joineryfir, cedar, cypress, Thujopsis, spruoe, cherry, oak, etc.

Wood used for joistTimber which doesn’t perish easily, includes cypress, thujopsis, Sciadopitys, chestnut

Wood used for pillarTimber which is strong and has a fine wood texture, includes cypress, cedar, spruce, thujopsis, hemlock

Even the buildings of elementary schools which were mostly constructed of concrete, are now increasingly being built of timber.

Umbrella-pine,Kohya mali

Sciadopilysverticillata

grider

ridge pieces

batten

beam

studpostpillar

bracejoist

Umbrella-pine,Kohya mali

10

MANAGEMENT OF THE NATIO

PUBLIC DEMANDS, INTENSIFI

5.NATIONAL

FORESTS

1.

2.

The national forests are managed within the context of a fundamental policy for the people based on the classification of important functions through the sustainable forest management and a sound watershed management.

National forest management emphasizes offering public service such as land conservation, water conservation, and the preservation ofnatural enolronment.

Classification of natural forests is intended to clearly define and prioritized functional objectives in three broad categories; (1) Coexistence of forest and people; (2)Conservation of soil and water; (3)Sustainable utilization of forest resources. In the national forests which have functions of the first and the second one, the management system is promoted for public interest. The national forests which have the last function (3) are managed based on the principle of effective timber production without serious negative impact on environments.

Preserved forests are set aside in national forests. The preserved forests maintain primeval natural environment.Besides, these are “Recreational Forests” which provide opprtunities for people to learn about natural forests, andso on.

■ Summary of classification by functions of national forest (April 2010)

■ The preserved Forests (April 2007)

Classification by Functions Area10,000 ha principal Management method

Cons

erva

tion

of w

ater

reso

urce

s

Utiliz

atio

n fo

r pub

lic in

tere

st

Coexistence of forest and people

21228%

Preservation of natural environments;Maintenance of the ecosystem;Protection of flora and fauna;Ensuring and promoting the aesthetic and recreational benefits of forest;Raising environmental awareness;Improving public health;Preserving cultural and spiritual values;

Sustained and vigorous protection;Preservation of natural conditions;Care and tending of wildlife and enrichment planting if necessary;Landscape improvement;Establishment of recreational facilities;Encouraging eco-tourism and events;Disseminating Information about natural resources;

Conservation of soil and water

51968%

Disaster prevention in hilly areas;Water conservation;Protecting against degradation of the living environment;

Development of multi-storey forest and mixed forest;Establishment of windbreaks and vegetative or structural erosion control measurers;

Sustainable utilization of

forest resources

284%

Emphasizing effective timber production without serious negative Impact on environments;

Identification of appropriate areas for establishment of timber production forests;Improvement of silvicultural systems;Appropriate research and development;Monitoring timber supply and demand;

Source: Forestry White Paper 2010

Classification Objective Number Area (1,000ha)

1. Protected areas for forest ecosystems Protection of the ecosystems of forests, wildlife and genetic resources. 29 495

2. Forests for the conservation of genetic resources. Conervation of genetic resources of all Dora and fauna comprising the forest ecosystem 12 35

3. Forest for the preservation of the genetic resources of tree species. Protection of gene pool of timber species and endangered species 325 9

4. Forests for the protection of plant colonies Protection of rare plants and trees that are valuable for scientific research 370 182

5. Forests for the protection of specified creature habitats Protection of the habitats and breeding sites of rare and endangered fauna 38 21

6. Forests for the protection of speciffied geographical features etc.

Protection against erosion of unique landforms and geological features such as type of rock, joint of rock, spring areas and glaciated places. 34 35

7. Forests for the local culture Protection of local forests that have culutural, spiritual and symbolic significance. 35 4

Total 843 782

Source: Forestry White Paper 2011

11

NAL FOREST RESPONDS TO THE

ED AND DIVERSIFIED.

3. The systematic and sustainable supply of forest products

Measures to ensure the systematic and sustainable supply of forest products go hand-in-hand with long-term planning reflecting market demand and in response to needs of consumers.

・Examples on ways to reconcile timber supply and market-driven demand based on consumer needs ・Timber extraction in dimensions that respond to market trends ・Promoting systems which ensure stable supply of timber・Examples on initiatives of effective promotion of various forest products ・Holding “Forest Festivals”, offering to pubic at reduced cost such peculiar products as sawmill waste, roots, stumps etc. ・Offering a soft drinks manufactured from the sap of trees such as cherry, and an eye drop from maple(Acer sp.)・Examples effort to expand market ・Establishment of satelite marketing outlets for “Propely Dried Logs”. ・Promoting the use of timber for construction of public buildings and interior use of house.

Land conservation forests

Spacial utilization forests

4. Contribution to the empowerment of rural and upland communities.

Offering employment opportunities in forest related public work projects; supplying timber products for local people and the rental of national forest land for schools, dams and other public uses.

■ Land Use of National Forest for the Public (March 2011)

Type Number (100's) Area (1000ha)Promotion intotal National

forest (%)

Forest land rented 333 76 1.0

Profit sharing plantation 214 127 1.7

Communal use forest 11 1,321 17.2

Total 558 1,524 19.8

Note: rented land is for agriculture, pasture, roads, facilities of electricity and communication etc.Source: Statistics of National Forest (FY 2011)

Deadupus oak,Mizunara

Quercuscrispula

Deadupus oak,Mizunara

12

OVERVIEW AND CHALLENGES OF THE FORESTRY SECTOR.

1.

2.

Japan’s forests are classified into national forests owned by the govern-ment, and non-national forests owned by private and local public bodies.

Small-scale individual forest ownerscomprise the majority of non-nationalforest proprietors.

The present system of forest ownership was established during the Meiji period (more than 100 years ago). Forests were classified into national ownership and non-national ownership. The national government is responsible for management of national forests. On the other hand, non-national forests are managed by local government authorities, private citizens, companies and other non-governmental organizations.

There are approximately 0.9 million private forest owners with more than 1 ha. They are widely dispersed throughout Japan and typically manage small-scale oparations covering less than 5 ha. However, factors such as steep slopes and complex topography make it difficult for the owners to achieve high productivity and rational use of their forests. Furthermore, compared with other industries, income from forestry is relatively low and not sufficient to provide basic financial needs. Thus large number of individual forest owners must seek outside employment to supplement income from forest and only devote part of their time to forest management.

6.FOREST

OWNERSHIP ANDTHE MANAGEMENT

SITUATION

■ Forest Resources by Ownership (March 2002)

■ Private Forest Ownership by size (1000 bodies)

0 500Number of owners(1,000 bodies)

1000 1500

2010200520001990198019701960

Year

1～55～2020～100over 100ha

423

691

761

777

823

853

876

69

185

211

230

239

244

219

21

40

43

45

47

45

36 3

3

3

4

3

3

4423

691

761

777

823

853

876

69

185

211

230

239

244

219

21

40

43

45

47

45

36 3

3

3

4

3

3

4

Source: World Census of Agriculture and Forestry (2010)

National Forest managedby Forestry AgencyNational Forest ownedby other agenciesPublic Forest ownedby PrefecturePublic Forest owned byCity, Town, Village, etc.Private Forest

7,623

631,1881,642

14,535

107,827

73719,035

29,398

286,351

Growingstock

(10,000m3)

Area(1,000ha)

Source: Forestry White Paper 2011

500m

500m

National Forest

National Forest

0～19years old20～29years old30～39years old40～49years old50～59years old60～69years old

ABCDEFGHI

F

H

C

G

E

EE

AA

AD

D

D

D

D

D

D

DD

DD

DI

DD

D

DDDD

B

B

B

by the tree agess

by the ownerships

500m

13

OVERVIEW AND CHALLENGES OF THE FORESTRY SECTOR.

3.

4.

Depopulation and economic stagnation in upstream villages aregiving negative impact on the maintenance and management of forests.

Due to declining prices of timber in recent years, domestictimber producers find it difficult to maintain profitability.

■ Total number of forestry laborers 　 and aging trends (Unit: 10,000 persons)

■ Log Prices Delivered to Mill Site (Unit: yen/m3） ■ Capability of Employment of Logging Laborer by Stampage　 Price of 1m3 Cedar tree (Unit: persons/m3)

Various factors pose serious disincentives to efficient forest management. Higher wages in urban areas lure away young workers in the highly-productive age group who are urgently needed for plantation maintenance and timber extraction. Those left behind are primarily older-aged workers no longer in their prime. Depressed prices of timber and changes in the timber demand structure are additional problems. Consequently forest production activities have stagnated, thus further reducing economic vitality at the village level.Forest owners are responding through measures that promotecollaboration and seek economy-of-scale opportunities. About 700 “Forest Owners Cooperative” organizations have been established and now manage more than 65% of all non-national forests. Approximately 1.6 million small-scale owners are members of these cooperatives which currently employ over 25,000 workers. The Forest Owners Cooperatives provide training facilities, recruitment of workers and giving incentive for appropriate mechanization to reduce costs and improve financial viability.

Higher wages have increased the costs of reforestation and plantation maintenance. Forest products from other countries now account for most of the timber used inJapan. These factors have pushed down prices of domestic timber and discourage investment in forestry activities.

Source: Foeslry White Pape (2011) Source: Forest and Forestry Statistics (2011)

Source: Forest and Forestry Statistics (2011)

0

5

10

15

20

1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2009

Number of forestry laborers

Ratio of forestry labors over the age of 65

7

1817

14

119

7 6 67 8 11

1925

26

0

5

10

15%

Total Number of forestry laborers

(unit: 10,000 person)

20

25

30

maple,Kaede

Acer spp.

0

5000

10000

15000

20000

25000

30000

35000

40000

45000

1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010

Domestic cedar log Imported hemlock log

Yen

/m3

38700

2490026000

2170017200

12400

34500

25000

2600026200 22600

23500 24200

11800

38700

2490026000

2170017200

12400

34500

25000

2600026200 22600

23500 24200

11800

1965 1975 1985 1995 1998 2000 2004 20090.0

1.0

2.0

3.0

4.0

5.0

6.0

7.0

8.0

9.0person

7.7

3.7

1.8 1.0 0.7 0.6 0.4 0.2

14

JAPAN IS COOPERATING IN VARIOUS WAYS TO HELP

CONSERVE AND DEVEL OP THE WORLD FORESTS.

■1 ■1●4●1●1■1■1●1●1●1●4●4●1●1■1●4●4●1●1●4●1■3●1●1■1■1■1

■1

■1

■3■4■4●5●5●5●5●5●5●5●5●5●5●5●5●5●5●1

●1

●4

●4

●4

●4

●■

■1■1●4●1●4■1●4●1●5●5●5

For more than forty years, Japan hes been cooperating with partner countries forSustainable Forest Management.

Recent Japan’s Cooperation with Partner Countries in Forestry SectorNote:

Type: 1 Technical Cooperation Project 2 Demonstration Research Project 3 Development Study 4 Grant Aid 5 ODA Loan

Argentina Project of Enhancement for Application of Afforestation and Reforestation of CDM Sustainable Use of Forest Resources in the West of the Province of FormosaBolivia the Forest Preservation ProgrammeBrazil Carbon Dynamics of Amazonian Forests International Course on Rainforest Monitoring Sustainable Use of Forest Resources in Estuary Tidal Floodplains in Amapa The project for Forest Conservation and Environmental Education in the Eastern Amazon Utilization of ALOS images to protect Brazilian Amazon and combat against Environmental CrimesBurkina Faso Project of Support for Seedling Production Sector The Participatory and Sustainable Forest Management in the Province of Comoe Projet de Renforcement des Capacités d’Enseignement et de Formation de l’Ecole Nationale des Eaux et Forêts The Project for the rehabilitation and reinforcement of the capacity of National Center of Forest Seed and four regional forest seed departmentsCambodia Adviser on Forestry Policy and Administration Project for Facilitating the Implementation of REDD+ Strategy and Policy The Project on Capacity Building for the Forestry Sector Phase 2 Project for Transboundary Biodiversity Conservation of Mekong Protected Forest Area the Forest Preservation ProgrammeCameroon Advisor: Sustainable Forest Management in the Congo Basin Advisor-'Forest Ecosystem Conservation' in the Congo Basin the Forest Preservation ProgrammeChile Integral Management of Watershed with Emphasis development of rural territory and environment The Study for Capacity Development and Promotion of AR-CDM in the Republic of ChileChina "Project on Forest Vegetation Restoration after the Earthquake in Sichuan Province" "Project on Forestry Human Resource Development in Western Region of China" Sino-Japan Forestry Ecology Training Center Project The Japan-China Cooperation Science and Technology Center for Forest Tree Improvement Project The Model Afforestation Project in Sichuan The Study on Vegetation Rehabilitation Model Program for Sand Storm Prevention around the Capital Beijing the Project for Afforestation for Conservation of Middle Stream of Huang He the Project for Afforestation for Conservation of Middle Stream of Huang He Eco-environmental Construction and General Treatment Project of the Yangtze Upper Reaches in Sichuan Province Gansu Afforestation and Vegetation Cover Project Guizhou Province Environment Improvement and Education Project Henan Province Afforestation Project Inner Mongolia Afforestation and Vegetation Cover Project Inner-Mongolia Loess Plateau Afforestation Project Jilin Afforestation Project Ningxia Afforestation and Vegetation Cover Project Qinghai Ecological Environmental Improvement Project Shaanxi Loess Plateau Afforestation Project Shanxi Loess Plateau Afforestation Project Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Yining City Comprehensive Environmental Renovation Project Jiangxi Afforestation Project Hubei Province Afforestation ProjectColombia The Project on Natural Forest Management and Sustainable UseCosta Rica the Forest Preservation ProgrammeCôte d'Ivoire the Forest Preservation ProgrammeDominica PR The Sustainable Watershed Management Project in the Upper Area of the Sabana Yegua Dam in the Dominican RepublicDR. Congo the Forest Preservation ProgrammeEast Timor Community-based integrated watershed management in Laclo and Comoro river basins Project for Community-based Sustainable Natural Resource Management the Forest Preservation ProgrammeEcuador Advisor on National Forestation and Reforestation PlanEthiopia Participatory Forest Management Project in Belete-Gera Regional Forest Priority Area Phase2 the Forest Preservation ProgrammeGabon Conservation of Biodiversity in Tropical Forest through Sustainable Coexistence between Human and Wild Animals the Forest Preservation ProgrammeGhana Participatory Forest Resource Management Project in the Transitional Zone the Forest Preservation ProgrammeIndia Capacity Building of the State Forest Training school/Institution Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Project Gujarat Forestry Development Project Phase 2 Integrated Natural Resource Management and Poverty Reduction Project in Haryana

On-GoingCompleted

PCM method training for Human Resouce Development

(JICA Group Training Program)

7.INTERNATIONALCOOOPERATION

The improvement of living conditions. Grafling of Avocado fruit tree.(Technical Cooperation Project in Rwanda)

Workshop for the improvement of living conditions.(Technical Cooperation Project in Iran)

Terrestrial Carbon cycle

15

JAPAN IS COOPERATING IN VARIOUS WAYS TO HELP

CONSERVE AND DEVEL OP THE WORLD FORESTS.

●5●5

●5●5

●5●5■1●1●1●1■1●1■1■1■1●1■4●4●4●1■1●1●4●1■1●1●1●4●4●1■3●1●4■1●3■1●1●4●1■4●1●4■1■1■3●4●4■1●1●4●4●1■1■1■4●1●4●4●5■3■1●1●1●3■4●4■4■1■1■1■1■3■4

India Karnataka Sustainable Forest Management and Biodiversity Conservation Project Orissa Forestry Sector Development Project Punjab Afforestation Project (II) Rajasthan Forestry and Biodiversity Project Tamil Nadu Afforestation Project Tripura Forest Environmental Improvement and Poverty Alleviation ProjectIndonesia Forest Fire Prevention Project by Initiative of people in Buffer Zone Program Community Assistance Around Peat Land Forest Area Project for Facilitating Development of Wood Industry in Small Diameter Logs Processing Project for facilitating the implementation of National Forestry Strategic Plan Project for the Promotion of Mass Propagation Technique of Native Tree Species for Reforestation Project on Comprehensive Approach for Conservation and Restoration of Ecosystems in Protected Areas Sub Sectoral Program on Mangrove The Forest Tree Improvement Project Phase II The Project for Support on Forest Resources Management Through Leveraging Satellite Image Information The Project on Mangrove Ecosystem Conservation and Sustainable Use in the ASEAN Region Project for Rehabilitation of the National Park Degraded by Forest Fire the Forest Preservation Programme Wild Fire and Carbon Management in Peat ForestIran Participatory Forest and Rangeland Management Project in Chaharmahal-va-Bakhtiari ProvinceKenya Training Project "Enhancing Adaption of Social Forestry in Africa" Third Country Training on Mitigating Climate Change in Africa through Social Forestry the Forest Preservation ProgrammeKirghiz Project for Participatory Forest Resource RehabilitationLaos Forest Management and Community Support Project Forestry Sector Capacity Development Project Participatory Land and Forest Management Project for Reducing Deforestation the Forest Preservation Programme the Programme for Forest Information ManagementMacedonia Project on Development of Integrated System for Prevention and Early Warning of Forest FiresMadagascar The Study on Rural Development and Watershed Management in the South-West Region of AlaotraMalawi Project for Community Vitalization and Afforestation in Middle Shire the Forest Preservation ProgrammeMalaysia The Pilot Project on the Plantation of Acacia-Hybrid in MalaysiaMali The Study on the Conservation of Central Niger Delta through wise use of Natural Resources in Mopti Prefecture in the Republic of MaliMexico Coastal Wetland Conservation in Yucatan PeninsulaMozambique Advisor for Strengthening of Forestry Management in Mozambique the Forest Preservation ProgrammeMyanmar Integrated Mangrove Rehabilitation and Management Project through Community Participation in the Ayeyawady Delta The Project for the Afforestation in the Dry ZoneNepal Participatory Watershed Management and Local Governance Project the Forest Preservation ProgrammeNicaragua Project on Participatory Forest ManagementPanama Project for Participatory Community Development and Integrated Management of the Alhajuela Lake Subwatershed Study and Valuation to Promote Biodiversity Conservation in Forest Reserves in the Peninsula of AzueroParaguay the Forest Preservation ProgrammePeru the Forest Preservation ProgrammePhilippines Project for Enhancement of Community-based Forest Management ProgramPNG Capacity Development on Forest Resource Monitoring for Addressing Climate Change in Papua New Guinea the Forest Preservation ProgrammeSamoa the Forest Preservation ProgrammeSenegal Project of capacity building for the restoration and the promotion of effective use of degraded soil in the areas of soil degra Project on the Integrated Community Forestry Development Project Extended Phase The Project Aimed at the Enhancement of Sustainability in the Mangrove Forest Management of Saloum Delta in the Republic of Senegal Project de. Project de reboisement de la zone du littoralThailand Reforestation and extension techniques for forester (Phase2) Project for Transboundary Biodiversity Conservation of Mekong Protected Forest Area the Forest Preservation ProgrammeTunisia Integrated Reforestation ProjectTurkey Integrated Watershed Rehabilitation and Management Training ProjectUruguay Project for the Enhancement of Implementation Capacity of Afforestation and Reforestation Clean Development MechanismViet Nam Afforestation Planning and Implementation Capacity Strengthening Project Project for Sustainable Forest Management in the Northwest Watershed Area The Study on Potential Forests and Land related to "Climate Change and Forests" in Vietnam the project for Afforestation on the Coastal Sandy Area in Southern Central Viet Nam (Phase II) the Forest Preservation Programme the project for Empowerment to the Community Damaged by Forest Fire in Ca Mau Province Capacity Building for Preparing Feasibility Studies and Implementation Plans for Afforestation Projects in the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam Forest fire rehabilitation project Project for Rehabilitation of Natural Forest in Degraded Watershed Area in the North of Vietnam Project on the Villagers Support for Sustainable Forest Management in Central Highland Development Study on Capacity Development for AR-CDM Promotion in Vietnam the Project for Afforestation on the Coastal Sandy Area in Southern Central Viet Nam (phase

Measuring of trunk weight for carbon stock(Development Study in VietNam)

Land Preparetion in degraded area(Grand Aid Project in China)

Through bilateral and multi-lateral cooperation, the Forestry Agency and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have been cooperating with developing countries in collaborative efforts to achieve sustainable forest management. As part of its worldwide commitment in this regard, Japan is providing technical and financial assistance, in many countries across the g1obe, including contribution to international programs of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) and NGOs.

Besides activities abovementationed, many cooperative studies, operations and investments have been carried out by NGOs (e.g. JOFCA, JIFPRO, OISCA, etc.) and private enterprises in Japan for the bilateral and/or multilateral (e.g. FAO, lTTO, etc.) cooperation in the forestry sector.Note: Activities started or completed between April 2002 and March 2011 are listed

Source: JICA Annual Report, Forestry Agency and JICS 2011

Ulmaceae,Keyaki Zelkova

serrata

Ulmaceae,Keyaki

Phone. 81（Japan）-3-5689-3435Fax.　 81（Japan）-3-5689-3439E-mail：hq-jofca@jofca.or.jp

HONGO-YUMICHO BUILDING 3F2-38-4 HONGO BUNKYO-KUTOKYO 113-0033 JAPAN

May 2012