Nature and Future Forum 2026

About this event

"Nature and Future Forum 2026" is an overnight forum where nature-minded young people gather, learn together, and discuss. This 3rd edition will be held in Aya Town, Miyazaki Prefecture, a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where human life thrives alongside organic farming and the conservation of evergreen broadleaf forests. Having protected one of Japan's largest laurel forests from development plans, Aya Town enacted Japan's first "Ordinance on the Promotion of Natural Ecosystem Agriculture" in 1988 and has continued community development centered on organic farming for nearly 40 years. At this forum, in Aya Town where "implementation" has taken form over many years, participants can experience the process of turning ideals into reality. Through fieldwork, engage all five senses to observe Aya Town's evergreen broadleaf forest conservation activities, organic farming practices, and satoyama revitalization initiatives involving corporations and diverse stakeholders. Furthermore, round sessions with practitioners engaging with nature in various ways and workshops contemplating one's own future provide an opportunity to make new discoveries and take the next step. It is anticipated to be an invaluable space for encounters and learning for young people who aspire to work with nature or stay connected to the natural world.

Venue

Aya UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Center / Aya Town UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Promotion Office

442-3 Minamimata, Aya, Higashimorokata District, Miyazaki 880-1303