JT launched afforestation projects in 2005. We have introduced these projects, in alignment with our commitment to the environment, in an effort to communicate to all our stakeholders, including our customers, employees and their families, the importance of becoming involved in environmental conservation activities. At the same time, we keep in close communication with the local governments, residents and forest owner cooperatives in the respective areas our afforestation projects are conducted.

Ongoing projects in Japan

1. Nakahechi project
The first project was launched in January 2005 in Nakahechi, Wakayama Prefecture. The 50-hectare-project will plant approximately 180,000 trees in the deforested area and is scheduled for completion in 2015. This is the largest project in the prefecture's afforestation program ''Kigyo no Mori,'' and is a highly esteemed model for the revitalization of the local economy and community. At present, the total number of local residents, JT employees and their families who have participated in the planting and clearing of weeds has reached 1270.

2. Kosuge project
The second project was launched in March 2006 in Kosuge, Yamanashi Prefecture. The 13-hectare-project aims to plant approximately 3,000 trees in an effort to regenerate the forest, and is scheduled for completion in 2011. With the aim to revive forest functions, including water conservation and maintaining a balance in the local ecosystem, broadleaf trees will be planted in place of thinned needle leaf trees. At present, the number of local residents, JT employees and their families who have participated in the planting and clearing of weeds has reached 910.

3. Nahari project
The third project, launched in November 2006 in Nahari, Kochi Prefecture, is a five-year plan focusing on the thinning of trees in a 160-hectare area. The project site is located in the basin of the Nahari River, where a type of coral which grows on the concrete barriers protecting the coastline was discovered at the river's mouth. This project aims to protect this unique coral and uphold the local ecosystem. At present, the number of local residents, JT employees and their families who have participated in the project is approximately 370.

4. Chizu project
The fourth project was launched in August 2007 in the Chizu area, Tottori Prefecture, which is an area that provides an important water source for local communities. The 23-hectare-project aims to plant 5,000 trees in an effort to regenerate forests and uphold the natural watershed the area provides, and is scheduled for completion in 2012. A viewing platform and small lodge will be produced by the thinned wood and other materials taken from the forest. At present, the number of local residents, JT employees and their families who have participated in the project is approximately 370.

5. Nakatsugawa project
The fifth project was launched in Nakatsugawa, Gifu Prefecture in April 2008. Its primary focus is on two areas that have been designated as natural preserves, including a forest comprised of Japanese cypress trees and a mostly unused area formerly used for mulberry farming. The 12-hectare project aims to create a self-sustaining forest that will contribute a number of benefits to the local ecosystem through the pruning and planting of broadleaf trees. At present, the number of local residents, JT employees and their families who have participated in the project is approximately 270.

6. Shigetomi project
The sixth project was introduced in an area maintained by JT since the Showa period (mid-1950's to mid-1960's), and involves restoration and conservation efforts in a 100-hectare forest composed largely of lauraceous trees. The location also provides a historical site, with ''Ookuchi-suji-shirakane-zaka,'' a historical national road which divides the forest. Through the project, the company aims to ensure future ecosystems for wildlife in the area, and encourage the mutual appreciation of history and nature. In addition, beginning in December 2008, the company began providing paved roads and walkways in the area, and opened a viewing platform where visitors can view the nearby Sakurajima.

Ongoing projects outside of Japan

Tanzania and Malawi
In January 2007, JT and Japan Tobacco International, the company's international tobacco business subsidiary, initiated a comprehensive program to assist local communities in Malawi and Tanzania to reduce deforestation and improve livelihood. The program covers a 4,000-hectare-area for reforestation and plans to plant eight million trees in each of the countries by 2010(*1). At the same time, the program provides treadle pumps for irrigation and improvement of the condition of wells in the area. The large numbers of trees that have been consumed to provide domestic fuel for families and the tobacco curing process in Malawi and Tanzania have led to defforestation. We have established strong ties with the nations as they are both large suppliers of tobacco leaves. As such, JT has selected the two nations for its environmental conservation projects outside of Japan.

(*1) The project aims to plant approximately 16 million trees in 8,000 hectares, in the eight regions in Malawi and Tanzania.