2024

Joined the "Mt. Zao Cleanup Activity" to preserve the rich natural environment of Mt. Zao in Yamagata Prefecture for future generations

The "Mt. Zao Cleanup Activity" is an annual cleanup and beautification event hosted by the city of Yamagata in June. The event aims to preserve the magnificent natural scenery, precious flora and fauna, and abundant hot spring resources of the Mt. Zao range, which straddles the prefectures of Yamagata and Miyagi. The initiative combines litter collection along ski slopes and hiking trails from the summit to the base with educational activities led by Mt. Zao Instructors. These activities aim to foster appreciation for nature and a mindset that values and protects the environment.

In order to pass on the beauty nature of Mt. Zao to future generations, our group has participated in this activity since 2013. This year marks our seventh participation, excluding years canceled due to rain. We expanded recruitment to include the entire Yamagata office. After promoting the event with posters and emails, we gathered a record 25 participants, including business travelers from the Philippines, and voluntary participants. For the participants from the Philippines, the Yamagata scenery seemed fresh and new. We carried out the cleanup activity while fostering employee relationships.

On the day, clear skies blessed us as we cleaned the walking paths alongside other companies in mild weather. The route ran from the Zao Central Ropeway Station through the hot spring town and past the bus terminal. Then, we crossed the Juhyo Bridge, passed through the Shiginoya Chinuma, and finished at the Zao Sanroku Station. Although there was relatively little litter on the paved roads and hiking trails, we collected a significant amount of trash around the rest area near the marsh. Finally, we sorted the trash we had collected at Zao Sanroku Station, concluding our activity.

A total of 40 kg of trash was collected during the event, which is less than half of what was collected the previous year. Since last year's event was canceled due to rain, this likely reflects improved manners among tourists and participants, as well as increased environmental awareness.

Additionally, the "Mt. Zao Cleanup Activity" was part of the commemorative events for the 135th anniversary of Yamagata City's establishment as a municipality. Ski jumper Sara Takanashi participated as well, drawing nationwide attention. Learning that Ms. Takanashi promotes using personal water bottles to reduce plastic waste reminded us that the most environmentally friendly approach is to simply "not produce" waste in the first place.

MinebeaMitsumi group aims to continue engaging in social contribution activities as a member of the local community, striving for coexistence and mutual prosperity with the region.