Diversity in forest restoration has two dimensions.
The first is biodiversity—restoring forests that support a rich mix of tree species and provide habitats for a wide range of wildlife.
The second is diversity in approach—recognizing that each forest has unique environmental conditions, social dynamics, and local challenges.
At More Trees, we collaborate with local communities to develop and support forest restoration strategies that reflect these features and needs of each site.
- Economic resiliencePlanting diverse species reduces price volatility and dependency on a single tree.
- Disaster risk reductionDiverse forests are more resilient to risks including insect outbreaks, windstorms, snow damage, and floods.
- Soil healthLeaf litter from diverse forests nourish a broader range of soil organisms than monoculture forests.
- Biodiversity recoveryA diverse forest creates habitats for many species, helping restore ecosystem balance and strengthen ecological functions.
Japan is a forest-rich country, with around 70% forest cover. These consist of both natural forests that have regenerated over time and planted forests established through human intervention. Today, roughly 40% of Japan’s forests are planted, while just over 50% are natural.
After World War II, to meet the soaring demand for timber during reconstruction, the government implemented a large-scale reforestation campaign known as the Expanded Afforestation Policy. This policy involved replacing natural and fuelwood forests dominated by broadleaf trees with fast-growing conifers like cedar and cypress. These species were selected for their quick growth and ease of use as timber, especially as broadleaf demand declined with the shift from firewood and charcoal to electricity, gas, and oil.
Between the 1950s and early 1970s, around 4 million hectares of forest were planted, accounting for about 40% of today’s 10 million hectares of planted forests.
Although this initiative increased forest cover, declining timber demand and a struggling forestry sector have left many forests poorly maintained. Inadequate thinning has caused overcrowding, stunted growth, and dark understories. Moreover, about 70% of Japan’s planted forests now consist solely of cedar and cypress, despite Japan being home to over 500 native tree species—leading to biodiversity loss and greater ecological risk.
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- Environmental risksMore prone to pests and less effective at preventing natural disasters.
- Economic risksA price drop in a single tree species can severely impact forestry income.
Many artificial forests planted after the war are now reaching maturity and being harvested. However, reforestation after logging is not keeping pace. One key reason is the economic difficulty—forestry is often unprofitable, and landowners struggle to afford the cost of replanting. Other factors include a decline in forest ownership engagement, the rise of unmanaged or ownerless forest land, and a shortage of forestry workers. According to the Forestry Agency, 60–70% of clear-cut forest areas are not being replanted, leading to an increase in abandoned land. In some cases, this contributes to a higher risk of soil erosion and landslides.
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At More Trees, we believe it is essential to choose management approaches based on the characteristics of each site and region. In areas suitable for timber production, maintaining artificial forests with a single species may still be appropriate. However, on land that has been harvested but is no longer ideal for active forestry—or where proper management is unlikely—we focus on restoring forests that include a diverse mix of species, rather than reverting to monocultures.
In our domestic reforestation efforts, we promote the transition to mixed and broadleaf forests, planting a variety of native species through replanting and thinning activities.
Forests around the world are disappearing at an alarming rate. From 1990 to 2020, the planet lost forest area equivalent to five times the size of Japan.
Particularly concerning is the loss of tropical forests, which play a critical role in sustaining biodiversity.
Tropical forests cover only about 7% of Earth's land surface, yet are home to over half of all species. They also provide vital oxygen and absorb large amounts of CO₂, a major contributor to global warming. Often called the "lungs of the Earth" and "biodiversity hotspots", their disappearance threatens countless species and ultimately humanity.
The decline of tropical forests is closely tied to human economic activity, particularly industries that support global consumption. From 1990 to 2020, forests covering an area five times the size of Japan were lost—mainly due to logging, agricultural expansion for palm oil and grazing, fires from slash-and-burn practices, and mining.
Many of the resulting products are consumed far from the forests that once stood.
In regions facing severe deforestation, especially in developing countries, More Trees supports reforestation through planting, forest care, and infrastructure like firebreaks. We plant native and fruit trees to restore ecosystems and support local livelihoods, while promoting green tourism through comprehensive, community-based approaches tailored to each region.
Our forest restoration efforts are made possible thanks to the support of many individuals.
Whether you live in the city or are just beginning to learn about forests, there are many ways to get involved.
Join us in restoring forests for the future.