The Secretariat of the Regional Model Forest Network–Asia (RMFN-Asia), managed by RECOFTC, recently published a featured article titled “The matchmaking model: Kyoto Model Forest connects local forest owners and companies for forest conservation.” This article follows a visit by the RECOFTC team to Kyoto in September 2025 to observe our collaborative initiatives firsthand.

The report highlights KMFA’s vital role as a “matchmaker,” bridging the gap between local forest owners and private corporations to address challenges like aging populations and undermanaged forests. It details how we facilitate long-term partnerships through Memorandums of Understanding, ensuring that corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities align with the specific needs of local communities.

Several long-standing partnerships are showcased, including the 17-year collaboration with Shimadzu Corporation in Nantan City, the extensive reforestation efforts by Sanyo Chemical Industries, Ltd. in Wazuka Town, and the innovative use of VR and telecommunications technology by KDDI in the Ashiu Forest. The article concludes that these symbiotic relationships are essential for passing down the richness of Kyoto’s forests to the future generation.

Read the full article here: The matchmaking model: Kyoto Model Forest connects local forest owners and companies for forest conservation