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A multitude of global challenges loom over the agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and food sectors, most notably the pressing issues of climate change and the escalating frequency of large-scale disasters. Compounding these challenges, Japan's agriculture, forestry, and fisheries industries are grappling with a labor shortage, primarily due to the aging of the population. In response to these critical concerns, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF) introduced the Strategy MIDORI (green), a blueprint for building a sustainable food system, on May 12, 2021.
Named "MIDORI," this medium- to long-term strategy charts the course for the future and focuses on two key pillars:
- Enhancing Stakeholder Engagement: The strategy underscores the importance of involving stakeholders at every juncture of the food supply chains, fostering collaboration and shared responsibility.
- Promoting Innovation for Reduced Environmental Impact: Innovation will be a cornerstone of efforts to mitigate the environmental footprint of these industries.
By the year 2050, MAFF has set ambitious targets that encapsulate its commitment to sustainability:
- Zero CO2 Emissions from Fossil Fuel Combustion: MAFF aims to eliminate carbon dioxide emissions resulting from the use of fossil fuels in agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.
- 50% Reduction in Risk-Weighted Use of Chemical Pesticides: This reduction will be achieved through the widespread adoption of Integrated Pest Management practices and the implementation of newly-developed alternatives to chemical pesticides.
- 30% Reduction in Chemical Fertilizer Use: A significant reduction in the reliance on chemical fertilizers is envisaged.
- Expansion of Organic Farming: The goal is to increase the land under organic farming to 1 million hectares, which would be equivalent to 25% of total farmland.
- 30% Enhancement in Productivity of Food Manufacturers by 2030: This target underscores the drive for greater efficiency and productivity among food manufacturers.
- Sustainable Sourcing for Import Materials by 2030: MAFF aims to ensure that the sourcing of import materials aligns with sustainability principles.
- Superior Varieties and Enhanced Forestry Seedlings: The aim is to have over 90% superior varieties and F1 plus trees in forestry seedlings.
- 100% Artificial Seedling Rates in Aquaculture: The objective is to achieve a 100% rate of artificial seedlings in the aquaculture of species such as Japanese eel and Pacific bluefin tuna.
MIDORI’s Approach to Sustainable Food System
Input: Reducing Environmental Impact
- Sustainably sourcing materials and energy.
- Effective utilization of local and unused materials.
- Encouraging research and development for the reuse and recycling of resources.
Production: Innovating for Sustainability and Productivity
- Transitioning to more sustainable and productive methods.
- Implementing eco-friendly materials and machinery.
- Developing and propagating plant varieties with reduced environmental impact.
- Carbon sequestration in farmlands, forests, and oceans.
- Enhancing the work environment.
- Responsible management of fisheries resources.
Processing and Distribution: Promoting Sustainable Practices
- Shifting to sustainable imported materials.
- Enhancing efficiency through data science and AI.
- Research and development of long-lasting packaging materials.
- Strengthening the competitiveness of a decarbonized, eco-friendly food industry.
Consumption: Engaging with Consumers
- Minimizing food loss and waste.
- Bridging the gap between consumers and producers.
- Promoting the Japanese diet as a balanced model.
- Incorporating sustainability into daily life.
- Advocating for sustainably-harvested and cultured seafood.