Japan’s Forests: A Key to Safeguarding Underground Water
Though Japan possesses a stable water supply, industrial extraction, forest degradation, and climate change are becoming an increasingly significant threat to groundwater levels.
In Japan, where stable water supplies have long been taken for granted, forest conservation is emerging as a critical factor in protecting underground water resources. While Japan has historically enjoyed an abundant supply of clean water, both industrial activity and forest degradation pose serious risks to this crucial resource. Maintaining healthy forests is vital for replenishing groundwater, preventing natural disasters, and ensuring a sustainable water future for Japan.
The Importance of Healthy Forests for Groundwater
Forests play an essential role in groundwater replenishment. They regulate soil quality, absorb rainwater, and mitigate the risk of flooding and landslides. When forest ecosystems are intact, they filter water effectively, allowing it to seep through the soil and replenish underground aquifers. Degraded forests, however, disrupt this cycle, leading to soil erosion and decreased groundwater levels.
Japan’s forests cover 66% of its land area, but not all of these forests are in good health. Some have been neglected, while others suffer from the pressures of human activity. As climate change accelerates, the combination of rising temperatures and ecosystem degradation is putting the country’s groundwater supplies under strain.
Historical Extraction and Industrial Impact
Japan’s groundwater challenges began in the post-World War II period when rapid economic growth led to widespread industrial groundwater extraction. The increased demand for water caused land subsidence and salinization, which prompted the government to take action. In 1956, the Industrial Water Law was passed, requiring companies to obtain permits for groundwater extraction. These regulations were further strengthened in 1962, ensuring that the extraction of groundwater was better managed, but issues continued to arise.
Despite these measures, groundwater is still at risk. A global study that analyzed over 170,000 wells across 40 countries found that 71% of the aquifers examined showed declining water levels between 2000 and 2022. This decline, combined with Japan’s growing environmental challenges, underscores the importance of forest conservation.
The Role of Public-Private Cooperation
Recognizing the importance of protecting groundwater, Japan has increasingly turned to collaborative efforts between public entities, private companies, and local communities. Leading the way is Suntory Holdings, whose Natural Water Sanctuary Initiative has been active since 2003. The initiative spans 12,000 hectares across Japan, where forests are restored and conserved to maintain groundwater levels.
Suntory’s work serves as a model for others, inspiring similar projects across the country. Coca-Cola Japan, for instance, recently signed an agreement with two cities in Shizuoka Prefecture to start a three-year water conservation project. These efforts are not limited to the private sector—local governments, such as Tokyo’s Bureau of Waterworks, are also playing a vital role in forest management, protecting the city’s water sources through responsible land stewardship.
Forest Conservation for a Sustainable Future
The critical connection between forest health and groundwater conservation highlights the need for long-term, large-scale efforts to protect both. Public-private partnerships, combined with local community involvement, offer a comprehensive approach to safeguarding Japan’s water resources.
Beyond water conservation, these initiatives bring additional benefits. Healthy forests absorb carbon dioxide, combat climate change, and restore biodiversity, making forest conservation an even more urgent priority in today’s environmental landscape. In the face of growing water scarcity worldwide, Japan’s forest conservation efforts provide an inspiring example of how to balance industrial needs with ecological sustainability.