Biodiversity Preservation Initiatives
HEPCO Group's business is built upon Hokkaido's abundant natural resources.
So that our operations may continue in Hokkaido, we will implement initiatives to coexist in harmony with nature, such as researching and protecting the ecosystem around electric power facilities.
Ecosystem Conservation during Hydroelectric Power Plant Replacement Project
As part of the project, we have been taking into account its impact on rare species and reviewing work methods with the advice of experts and others. We switched the period of time when water releases would be shut down to coincide with intervals when there would be little impact on living creatures and shortened the shutdown to the minimum extent feasible. During construction as well, we worked with people in the community to survey and monitor rare species as we endeavored to preserve the ecosystem.
Biological survey underway
Identified cherry trout and freshwater pearl mussels (released after confirmation)
Preventing Accidental Electrocution of Birds by Power Transmission & Distribution Facilities
In cooperation with relevant government agencies and experts, we have studied measures and devices that prevent accidents where precious birds are accidentally electrocuted. We have set up transmission and distribution pylons and other structures equipped with marker tubes which helps wildlife recognize power lines and avoid colliding with them, bird checkers so that birds do not approach areas where they might be electrocuted, and perches which guide birds to places safe from electrocution.
Tancho flying by power lines on which marker tubes have been placed
Experiment conducted with experts that focuses on birds of prey
Bird checkers mounted on pylons
Blakiston's fish owl resting on a perch
Reforestation Initiatives
Agreement with Hokkaido to not only plant
more trees, but also strive to realize a sustainable society while giving consideration to restoring water source protections, preserving biodiversity, reducing CO2, developing people who will carry on the forestry industry, and promoting Ainu culture.
From the standpoint of developing and supporting people who will be responsible for the forestry of tomorrow in Hokkaido, we asked students of Hokkaido Prefectural North Forest Development Academy, which opened as the first school in Hokkaido specializing in forestry studies, to select seeds to be planted, and we invited them to propose planting methods suitable for reforestation.
The place where the trees were planted, was named HEPCO & North Forest College Co-Creation Forest. We are actively working to create new forests as the HEPCO Group works together with the Academy.
Signing ceremony with the Governor of Hokkaido (September 2021)
Workers planting trees in the HEPCO & North Forest Identified cherry trout and freshwater pearl mussels (released after confirmation) Blakiston's fish owl resting on a perch College Co-Creation Forest
