In July 2022, we signed a cooperation agreement with Kyoto University’s Field Science Education and Research Center for the New Satoyama‒Satoumi Co-Creation Project, promoting co-creation through education, research, and collaboration. Under the Connectivity of Hills, Humans and Oceans (CoHHO) framework, we share fieldwork findings and support joint studies, including test site activities, biological surveys, study sessions, and community engagement.
Environmental Education and Joint Research
Cultivating human resources active in the environmental field.
In partnership with universities and other institutions, we conduct joint research on satoyama and implement training programs to cultivate future leaders in the environmental field.
Collaboration with various universities
To create a sustainable society, we work on researching and creating Satoyama for local communities in collaboration with six universities.
Kyoto University
United Nations University
In 2024, we signed a cooperation agreement with the United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS) to achieve global goals like the Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework. By leveraging both of our expertise and networks, we will advance research on domestic and international challenges to develop solutions. In addition, we will propose effective solutions by promoting discussions based on the latest scientific knowledge while also fostering the next generation of global youth leaders.
Chiba University
Since 2022, we have been collaborating with Chiba University’s Graduate School of Horticulture to study ecosystem changes at KIMITSU AEON Forest through vegetation surveys, sapling protection, and weed control trials. In 2024, we explored new approaches to enjoying, cultivating, and regenerating satoyamastyle forests.
The University of Tokyo
From 2017 to 2021, we collaborated with the University of Tokyo’s Institute for Future Initiatives to host the AEON Future Earth Forum. In March 2022, we co-founded the AEON‒Todai Satoyama Lab to promote a society in harmony with nature and revitalize regional economies. The Lab continues to drive innovation through locally rooted initiatives.
Tohoku University
In June 2021, we partnered with Tohoku University’s International Research Institute of Disaster Science (IRIDeS) and AEON MALL Co.,Ltd. to launch the AEON Disaster-Resilient and Environmentally-Friendly City Creation Joint Research Lab. Through this initiative, we conduct joint research and activities focused on disaster preparedness for environmentally friendly cities centered around commercial facilities, and have established regional partnership hubs to foster resilient, safe, and secure communities.
Waseda University
In September 2020, we established the AEON TOWA Research Center in partnership with Waseda University to address pressing environmental challenges. Together, we collaborate on resolving local issues and cultivating
global environmental talent, with a focus on satoyama, forest creation, human capacity building, and community development. Since 2022, we have offered endowed courses and conducted research at key satoyama sites to promote sustainable community-building through satoyama-based approaches.