Propose a social business to protect forests in developing countries.

The conference served as the kickoff for this year's project, held ahead of workshops scheduled for July in Tokyo and Kobe.

At the outset, business producer Shugo Yanaka (Chief Supervisor of the award), serving as navigator, stated: "I believe participants have different perspectives—some active in international cooperation, others engaged in NGO work from a social business viewpoint. This conference combines those approaches. We aim to leverage social business, which integrates social significance with enterprise, to solve challenges in developing countries."

Natsuko Shiraki, CEO of jewelry brand HASUNA, presented on "Businesses Solving Social Issues in Developing Countries," introducing the brand's ethical business practices. "In the fashion industry, where ethical trade is often deemed impossible, we deliberately pursue transparent transactions. This is gradually changing the industry and will eventually transform society," she stated. She advised young people aspiring to social business to actively meet with investors and remain true to their passion.

Photojournalist Natsuki Yasuda introduced a real-life example from Cambodia, showing photographs of efforts to cultivate cassava after landmine removal and produce shochu in collaboration with Japanese technology. "It's important to think that you are being allowed to intrude and given time, rather than doing something for them. And don't forget to give something back. Build many relationships locally," she said.

Shinsuke Yazaki of Kanematsu Corporation's Steel, Materials & Brands Division introduced initiatives in Indonesia, such as green economic development through cacao farming. "It is difficult for private companies to start new agricultural projects, so we are proceeding through public-private partnerships. It is important not only to provide guidance and awareness activities, but also to actually purchase agricultural products. As a result, we can curb deforestation," he said.

Mr. Takahiro Morita of JICA's Global Environment Department spoke about the current state of the world's forests and climate change. "Japan has a forest coverage rate of about 70%, which is among the highest in developed countries, on par with Sweden. However, the world's forest coverage rate is declining, and tropical forests in particular are rapidly disappearing, which is why we are promoting conservation projects. When considering social business, we must value both forests and people's livelihoods."

The Japanese-American comedy duo Pakkun Mackun, serving as official supporters of the platform and special judges for the awards, also took the stage. "We hold international conferences every day," they joked while reflecting on the guests' talks. They concluded, "Seeking business opportunities and challenging new things is great, but incorporating what you love can lead to new discoveries and sustainability. We hope you enjoy business with that as your focus."

The project will select official correspondents following July workshops and August presentations (judging sessions). Correspondents will be dispatched overseas for forest inspections, experiencing the potential of various business ideas firsthand on behalf of workshop participants. Upon returning, they will report on their experiences through a final presentation (scheduled for October) and various events.

Official website: http://www.reddplus-platform.jp/