Hitachi Research and Development Group has launched the "100-Year Future Project" to preserve and pass on the natural environment of the Kokubunji site to future generations. On October 7, 2025, a commemorative tree-planting event was held to mark the beginning of the project.

The "Kyōsō-no-Mori" – Hitachi R&D co-creation sites in harmony with nature and wildlife

The Kokubunji site of Hitachi Research & Development Group, established in 1942 as the Central Research Laboratory, embodies the philosophy of Namihei Odaira, the founder and first president, who said, "Do not cut down good trees; build around them." In line with this vision, the site has preserved as many healthy trees as possible and has been actively managing its forest for over 80 years.
Kyōsō-no-Mori is a 22.4-hectare area located in Kokubunji City, Tokyo, that plays a vital role in preserving the local ecosystem and biodiversity. In 2023, it was also certified as an 'OECM(*) site' by the Ministry of the Environment, Japan.
*OECM: Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures

However, in recent years, concerns about the forest's health and safety have arisen due to aging trees and changes in the natural environment. In response to the growing need to protect the natural environment and ensure safe maintenance and management, Hitachi R&D Group launched the "100-Year Future Project" to pass on a sustainable environment to future generations.

Nurturing a forest for the future together

The goal of this project is to pass on a sustainable natural environment to future generations. It involves not only removing hazardous trees, such as fallen ones, but also planting new trees, maintaining existing plantings, and reusing waste materials to sustainably protect the forest. Additionally, it emphasizes fostering a sense of responsibility among employees, encouraging them to think, "We bear the responsibility of protecting this forest."

On October 7, 2025, we held a commemorative tree-planting event to mark the kickoff of the project. As the first step toward the next 100 years, employees at the Kokubunji site planted saplings of Japanese flowering dogwood, hoping to "deliver the richness and connection of this forest to future generations."

画像: Nurturing a forest for the future together

Toward a sustainable natural environment

Over the next three years, the Kokubunji site plans to plant approximately 100 new trees. Furthermore, instead of treating felled trees as waste, they will be repurposed into items that can become part of employees' daily lives.

This project, which aims not only to increase the number of trees but also to pass on a sustainable legacy to future generations, symbolizes the R&D Group's commitment to building on its long history while striving for further growth.
To preserve valuable nature for future generations and the planet, each employee will proactively consider "coexistence with nature" and engage in activities to create a sustainable future.