NYK and NYK Group company Asahi Unyu Kaisha, Ltd. will donate 1 million yen and 500,000 yen, respectively, to support environmental conservation activities on Sakushima, a remote island located in Mikawa Bay. A presentation ceremony recognizing the donation was held on February 5 at the Nishio city office. This marks the fourth year of donations by the NYK Group to Nishio City since 2023.

Mikawa Bay, surrounded by the Chita and Atsumi peninsulas, is where many vessels enter and leave port. Since 2023, NYK Group employees have been participating in volunteer activities to plant eelgrass* seedlings, contributing to the restoration of the local marine environment. The grants will be used mainly for research and restoration activities related to seaweed bed** cultivation and eelgrass seedling cultivation.

At the ceremony, Nishio Mayor Ken Nakamura expressed his gratitude, commenting, “Interest in marine environmental conservation has been growing in recent years, and the seaweed bed restoration activities on Sakushima — an island that attracts significant attention from both residents of the prefecture and the city — are truly commendable initiatives that contribute to the preservation of marine resources. We will make effective use of this donation to support future activities and sincerely appreciate your continued support and cooperation.”

The NYK Group will continue to strengthen its efforts to protect the marine environment and conserve biodiversity.

* Eelgrass
Found in the temperate and subarctic zones of the Northern Hemisphere, eelgrass is a seagrass that plays a major role in purifying seawater, supplying oxygen, and providing a home for a wide variety of sea life.

** Seaweed bed
Often called the “cradle of the sea.” Improves water quality and serves as a place for eggs and growth.

Nishio City Website