The forest area within Sapporo Maruyama Zoo, located in Sapporo City, has been officially recognized as a Nationally Certified Sustainably Managed Natural Sites by the Ministry of the Environment, Japan (MOEJ).

The Forest was originally used as the zoo’s backstage area. In 2008, it was redeveloped into a “Nature Experience Zone” to provide visitors with opportunities to learn about and connect with nature close to home. Since then, the zoo has continued to work together with forest volunteers to remove invasive species and conserve the site’s ecological integrity. At the same time, guided nature walks are offered to visitors, introducing them to the diverse plants and wildlife observed in the forest throughout the four seasons.

Under the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) of Japan 2023–2030, the MOEJ is advancing the goal of “Nature Positive by 2030,” which aims to halt and reverse biodiversity loss and put nature on a path to recovery. As part of this initiative, the MOEJ certifies areas where biodiversity conservation is being effectively advanced through initiatives led by private companies, local governments, and other stakeholders as “Nationally Certified Sustainably Managed Natural Sites.”

The recognition of Sapporo Maruyama Zoo Forest acknowledges that the forest activities continuously carried out to date have been highly valued as an effective initiative. By utilizing the zoo’s forest within a facility that exhibits wild animals as a platform for environmental education, these efforts have contributed to raising awareness of the importance of biodiversity.

From 2026 onward, the zoo plans to strengthen forest management and maintenance efforts further. Through continued monitoring and stewardship, it aims to contribute to the long-term conservation and maintenance of biodiversity.

(Article provided by Sapporo City, and translated by ICLEI Japan)