*Cumulative totals as of FY2024
More Trees is a forest conservation organization founded by musician Ryuichi Sakamoto and led by architect Kengo Kuma.
Today, the world faces serious problems like climate change and the biodiversity crisis—issues that are closely linked to deforestation and forest degradation.
We aim to overcome these challenges and build a sustainable society where forests and people coexist for generations to come—enabling future generations to continue receiving the vital gifts that forests provide. Guided by this vision, More Trees carries out hands-on projects and initiatives that help turn this vision into reality.
Forests around the world are disappearing at an alarming rate, with tropical rainforests—home to rich biodiversity—being among the most vulnerable. This widespread deforestation is not only threatening ecosystems but also accelerating climate change on a global scale.
Meanwhile, about 70% of Japan's land is covered by forests. Despite being one of the most forested nations in the world, many forests in Japan are losing vitality in areas where proper care and management have not been maintained.Japan is home to over 500 native tree species, yet around 30% of its forests are dominated by just two—cedar and cypress—reflecting an imbalance in forest diversity.
Forests nurture life, shape the unique climate and culture of each place, and sustain our daily lives—they are an irreplaceable foundation for all living beings, regardless of where we live.
However, many of us are gradually losing our connection with forests. Technological advances and economic development have brought about more convenient and comfortable lifestyles, but we risk losing what truly matters if we continue on this path.
To realize a society where forests and people coexist, we are committed to exploring, reflecting on, and practicing what we can do now, with a long-term perspective.
More Trees engages in forest conservation activities that are tailored to local conditions and climates, focusing on planting, nurturing, harvesting, and making sustainable use of trees. A core value we uphold is connecting cities and forests, acting as a link between urban life and forest ecosystems.
Through our activities, we bring the gifts of the forest to cities and return people’s appreciation and support back to the forests, rebuilding the connection between cities and forests.
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Tree planting
& Forest Care -
Wood Use
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Carbon Offset
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Talks & Events
Our forest activities began in 2007 in Yusuhara Town, Kochi Prefecture, and have since expanded to 22 sites across Japan and 2 overseas locations.
We work together with local governments, forestry associations, professionals, craftspeople, residents, donors, and experts to grow and care for forests. Our forest projects are made possible through these diverse and collaborative partnerships.
& seedling growers
& research institutions
Rather than focusing on planting numbers or area size, we engage in region-based forest stewardship, working in line with each community’s vision and conditions, grounded in scientific and professional expertise.
We aim to restore the diverse functions of forests, such as biodiversity conservation and carbon absorption, bringing positive impacts that enrich both nature and human life.
We work with a wide range of partners, including local governments, national agencies, corporate supporters, forestry businesses, residents, and experts, collaborating across sectors to advance forest stewardship.
We collaborate with creators, artists, and local artisans, producing inspiring products and spaces that unlock new possibilities for both wood and people.
Beyond tree planting, we design systems that connect cities and forests through tours, events, and product development using domestic timber.
We walk alongside the long timeline of forests, looking 50 to 100 years ahead and beyond, passing on the forests we’ve inherited to the next generation.
Humans have always coexisted with forests. But, where forests collapse, so do civilizations. The forests falling apart around the world seems to forewarn us of the place human civilization is heading towards.
Japan is a country that relies on its abundance of forests which capture CO2, store water, nourish living things, and nurtures oceans. Together, we can pass on the precious forests for the future generations.
More Trees!!
Ryuichi Sakamoto, Founder
After the passing of Ryuichi Sakamoto—a dear friend and one of the artists I admired most—I came to take on the role of leading More Trees. I feel I have inherited not only the organization, but a far greater weight—the responsibility for the future of our planet.
It was this deep sense of duty that moved the Professor, who was naturally very shy, to take action. His quiet determination touched many hearts, and that spirit is what shaped the organization into what it is today.
I will never forget the spirit and purpose that moved him, and I hope to carry it forward—to people around the world, and to forests everywhere.
Kengo Kuma, Representative
©Designhouse
Our forest restoration efforts are supported by many individuals and organizations.
Whether you live in the city or are just beginning to learn about forests, there are many ways to get involved.
Join us in growing forests for the future.
More Trees Design Inc.: Planning and sales of original products of More Trees with domestic timber
Official online store for More Trees orignal products
TSUMIKI, designed by an architect Kengo Kuma
LIFE311, an assistance project for areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011
