Kumamoto Advances Environment and Recovery Initiatives

On October 29, Kumamoto Prefecture held a press conference to unveil a series of initiatives focused on environmental protection, disaster recovery, and the promotion of local agricultural products.

Tackling Improper Solar Panel Management

Kumamoto Prefecture is taking proactive steps to address environmental concerns related to the improper management of solar panels. In Japan, many private companies have installed solar panels under a national feed-in tariff scheme, which guarantees fixed purchase prices for renewable energy. However, with this support set to end in 2032, concerns have emerged about abandoned or poorly maintained solar installations.

To mitigate future risks, the prefecture launched a countermeasures committee in August and has established three key goals:

• Require companies to set aside funds for the eventual removal of solar panels

• Ensure long-term, appropriate site selection for installations

• Promote the recycling of decommissioned solar panels

The second committee meeting was held on October 31, where survey results from installation contractors were reviewed.

Additionally, the prefecture has designated appropriate zones for solar panel installation and published a zoning map. Applications to install panels in unsuitable areas will be redirected by the prefecture or local municipalities to approved zones. The governor emphasized that, in principle, new installations in inappropriate areas will not be permitted.

Fundraising for Aso Environmental Conservation

To preserve the natural environment of the Aso region, Kumamoto Prefecture has launched a fundraising initiative with a target of ¥30 million by December 2025. Donations will be distributed to environmental organizations, with outcomes evaluated by a dedicated committee.

As of October 31, the campaign had already raised ¥2,555,000 from individuals and organizations.

Special Exhibition on Earthquake Recovery Featuring "ONE PIECE"

In collaboration with the globally renowned manga "ONE PIECE", Kumamoto Prefecture will host a special exhibition highlighting the region's recovery from the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake. The manga's creator, Eiichiro Oda—himself a Kumamoto native—has supported the recovery through various efforts, including the donation of bronze statues of "ONE PIECE" characters.

The exhibition will showcase the statue creation process and feature a special video installation that blends iconic scenes from "ONE PIECE" with real-life images of Kumamoto's reconstruction. Governor Kabashima expressed his hope that the exhibition will convey the prefecture's resilience, gratitude for the support received, and the power of storytelling in healing and rebuilding.

Promoting Kumamoto's Local Foods in Osaka and Tokyo

To boost awareness and sales of its regional specialties, Kumamoto Prefecture launched a local food promotion campaign in collaboration with department stores and hotels in Osaka on November 1. A similar event is planned for Tokyo in the near future. The initiative aims to showcase the appeal of Kumamoto's culinary offerings and expand distribution channels across major urban markets.