Japanese businesses are under increasing pressure to protect nature and promote sustainability, a trend that is reflected in the efforts of Château Mercian Mariko vineyard and winery in central Japan. Once a barren mulberry field, the land has been transformed into a thriving ecosystem through dedicated conservation efforts.
The vineyard adopts a circular approach by composting grape residues and converting pruned vine branches into biochar, reducing waste and contributing to overall sustainability. This approach is supported by Kirin Holdings Company, the owner of the vineyard, which 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 with the ultimate goal of driving capital towards more positive outcomes for nature. An environmental specialist from Kirin emphasizes the importance of water and nature capital to the vineyard and winery business, in line with TNFD’s commitment.
In Tokyo, Damon spoke with a TNFD taskforce member who stressed the need for global companies to support others in exploring nature-positive practices. Additionally, a Tokyo professor highlighted the importance of creating business opportunities that protect nature as a fundamental step towards transforming the global economic system.