Regarding the construction of a mega solar power plant underway near the Kushiro Marsh in Hokkaido, Mayor Tsuruma of Kushiro City made a statement.
The city intends to continue requesting the operator to conduct a re-investigation.
“It is truly regrettable that a development project, whose impact on natural monuments cannot be assessed as minor, has been carried out, leading to an unprecedented situation where there are concerns about potential loss or damage to Special Natural Monuments such as the red-crowned crane.”
Mayor Tsuruma of Kushiro City was referring to the construction of a mega solar power plant underway near the Kushiro Marsh.
On a privately owned plot of approximately 4.2 hectares in Hokuto, Kushiro City, an operator from Osaka City plans to install about 6,600 solar panels.
According to the city, the operator’s preliminary survey for this project was insufficient, raising concerns about negative impacts on rare species such as the red-crowned crane and the white-tailed eagle.
The city has notified the operator that if the project violates the Cultural Properties Protection Act, the Agency for Cultural Affairs may order restoration to the original condition.
Q. Could anything have been done before the construction progressed?
“In the absence of a valid survey report, the operator’s unilateral decision to commence construction was unprecedented and unforeseeable.”
Q. The operator claims the survey has been completed, but the city considers it insufficient?
“If something happens on-site…”
“The impact on the preservation of natural monument bird species cannot be evaluated. This situation must be resolved. Without improvement, we cannot move forward.”
“Officials from the Ministry of the Environment will now exchange views with Mayor Tsuruma.”
In response to this incident, Mayor Tsuruma conveyed the city’s future initiatives and requests to the Ministry of the Environment.
Meanwhile, according to those involved, the operator has indicated its intention to continue the construction, and future developments will be closely watched.
Kushiro Marsh
The Kushiro Marsh is Japan’s largest wetland, located in eastern Hokkaido, and was formed over thousands of years by sediment deposits from the Kushiro River. It was officially designated as a national park in 1987 and is renowned as a vital sanctuary for wildlife, most notably the endangered Japanese red-crowned crane.
red-crowned crane
The red-crowned crane is a large, majestic bird revered as a symbol of luck, longevity, and fidelity in East Asian cultures, particularly in Japan, China, and Korea. Historically, it was a common subject in art and folklore, but its populations have declined due to habitat loss, making conservation efforts critical for its survival.
white-tailed eagle
The white-tailed eagle is not a place or cultural site, but a large bird of prey native to Eurasia. Historically, it faced severe population declines due to persecution and pesticides, but conservation efforts have led to its successful reintroduction and recovery in many parts of its former range.
Cultural Properties Protection Act
The Cultural Properties Protection Act is a South Korean law established in 1962 to preserve and protect the country’s cultural heritage. It was enacted to systematically safeguard tangible and intangible assets, including historic sites, artifacts, and traditional arts, following the damage incurred during the Korean War. This legislation remains a cornerstone of cultural preservation efforts in South Korea.
Agency for Cultural Affairs
The Agency for Cultural Affairs is a special body of the Japanese government, established in 1968, that promotes and preserves Japanese arts and culture. Its responsibilities include protecting cultural properties, supporting artistic activities, and promoting the Japanese language. It operates under the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.
Ministry of the Environment
The Ministry of the Environment is a government department responsible for developing and implementing national policies on environmental protection, conservation, and sustainability. Its history is tied to the modern environmental movement, with many countries establishing their own versions in the late 20th century to address growing public concern over pollution and ecological degradation. Its core mission is to safeguard natural resources and ensure a healthy environment for current and future generations.
