As we begin this new year, I would first like to express my deepest sympathies to everyone affected by the natural disasters that occurred in various regions over the past year. I sincerely pray for the swift restoration of peace and normalcy in your lives. I am also truly delighted that you have been able to welcome the New Year of 2026 in good health.

Supported by the understanding and cooperation of many Kyoto residents—including corporations, organizations, community groups, and volunteers—the Kyoto Model Forest movement has steadily expanded its reach.

Last year, driven by our desire to inspire the next generation to connect with nature, we enhanced our environmental education programs and hands-on initiatives. We also established new learning opportunities for university students, creating a “bridge” to pass the value of forests to the next generation. Furthermore, we hosted a public lecture titled “Forests and Well-being” to explore the restorative effects of nature, promoting the multifaceted value of our woodlands. In the realm of corporate partnerships, the past year saw significant progress not only in forest maintenance but also in biodiversity conservation and timber utilization. These achievements are a direct result of your warm support, for which I am deeply grateful.

This year, the Kyoto Model Forest movement marks the significant milestone of its 20th anniversary. As the zodiac sign for this year is the Horse—a symbol of progress and soaring spirits—we intend to build upon our established foundation to breathe new life into our movement and gallop forward into a year of great leaps.

In recent years, the environmental challenges surrounding us—such as extreme weather, the deterioration of satoyama (traditional community forests), and the decline of biodiversity—have grown increasingly severe. Conversely, forests sustain our lives by contributing to carbon neutrality, recharging water resources, and mitigating disasters. The importance of restoring the relationship between people and forests through sustainable forest management has never been higher.

This year, our Association will continue to focus on initiatives that “Connect People and Forests.” We will deepen our collaboration with companies and local communities, empower the younger generation to take the lead, and advance forward-looking forest conservation from Kyoto. To mark our 20th anniversary, we will proactively share the significance and rewards of our work through our newsletters and website. Our hope is to invite even more people to join our movement and expand the circle of those who embrace the vital importance of our forests.

In closing, I offer my sincere wishes for your health and prosperity in the year ahead.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　January 1, 2026
Kyoto Model Forest Association
President Takao Ando