Mitsui's Forests
Public Benefits of Mitsui's Forests
The forests not only provide lumber but fulfil a whole range of socially beneficial functions vital to human life.
In order to make sure that the forests adequately fulfill these functions, Mitsui carries out appropriate upkeep and maintenance in an ongoing fashion.
Socially Beneficial Functions of the Forests
Land Preservation
By putting down roots, trees preserve the soil and prevent landslides.
Water Control
Leaf mulch stores rainwater, reducing the risk of floods, purifies water, and feeds the groundwater supply.
Approximately 130 km2 (13,000 hectares) of Mitsui's forests are officially designated as Water Conservation and Water Safety Forests, important for safeguarding the water supply and preventing floods and landslides.
Absorbing and Accumulating Carbon Dioxide
Forests absorb and accumulate carbon dioxide (CO2) and produce oxygen. It is estimated that Mitsui's Forests absorb and fixate approximately 160,000 tons of CO2 annually, and that they have accumulated a total of approximately 10 million tons. In this way, we are contributing to mitigating climate change-related risk through sustainable forest management. (Calculations based on the Tier 2 method in the IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories.)
Preserving Biodiversity
The forests provide a habitat for living organisms, helping to preserve genes, species, and ecosystems. For more information on the Environmental Functions of Forests page.
Foundation for Human Culture
Mankind creates distinctive regional cultures by passing on essential knowledge and crafts related to forest and mountain environments.
Places of Recreation
Contact with the forests promotes recreation and relaxation.
Place of Education
Contact with forests provides opportunities to think about our relationship with the environment.