Smart Net-Zero

MAFF and JIRCAS | Source | Download |

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:

1. Enhancing Stakeholder Engagement: The strategy underscores the importance of involving stakeholders at every juncture of the food supply chains, fostering collaboration and shared responsibility.
2. 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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 30% Reduction in Chemical Fertilizer Use: A significant reduction in the reliance on chemical fertilizers is envisaged.
4. 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.
5. 30% Enhancement in Productivity of Food Manufacturers by 2030: This target underscores the drive for greater efficiency and productivity among food manufacturers.
6. Sustainable Sourcing for Import Materials by 2030: MAFF aims to ensure that the sourcing of import materials aligns with sustainability principles.
7. Superior Varieties and Enhanced Forestry Seedlings: The aim is to have over 90% superior varieties and F1 plus trees in forestry seedlings.
8. 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.