Forests created in central Tokyo biz area help ease summer heat, sooth harried workers
TOKYO -- The Japanese capital's high-rise business districts are often described as "concrete jungles" because of their stark urban landscape, and hav
Tokyo's bustling central business districts, often likened to concrete jungles, have long been recognized for their impact on the urban heat island effect. However, recent initiatives to introduce greenery into these areas are proving effective in mitigating this phenomenon. At Otemachi Tower, operated by Tokyo Tatemono Co., an impressive array of approximately 200 trees and other vegetation has been planted, forming a forested oasis amidst the skyscrapers.
A joint survey conducted by the company and the Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute revealed that indoor temperatures within this verdant space were notably cooler, at 32.5 C during peak noon hours, compared to a scorching 35.8 C just outside. Even the adjacent paved sidewalks registered a scorching 32.7 C, underscoring the pronounced cooling effect of the forested area.
This cooling effect extends beyond just indoor spaces. A paved surface adjacent to the forest measured a mere 31.9 C, significantly lower than the blistering 47.3 C found on the ground surface near a nearby intersection. The benefits of this greenery extend to the local ecosystem as well. The tower's 10,000-square-meter site, one-third of which is dedicated to green space, supports a diverse array of flora and fauna, including 208 plant species, 129 insects, and 13 bird species.
The developers emphasize that this investment in greenery is a strategic move to enhance the well-being of employees, providing them with physical, mental, and social benefits. The demand for such spaces is clearly high, as businesses recognize the value of these green sanctuaries in fostering a productive and harmonious work environment.
The trend of integrating greenery into urban developments is gaining momentum, with another notable example at Otemachi One, developed by Mitsui & Co. and Mitsui Fudosan Co. This 6,000-square-meter green space, home to about 300 trees and 6,600 shrubs, boasts a surface temperature that is a comfortable 10 to 20 C cooler when shaded by the trees compared to direct sunlight.
The site's 11 metric tons of carbon dioxide absorption and storage annually highlight its environmental significance. Beyond its cooling properties, the space has become a popular spot for business meetings, with tenant surveys consistently praising its quality. The developers see the integration of such natural elements as a way to set their properties apart, offering a unique blend of functionality and tranquility that mirrors the historical connection to nature, reminiscent of the spot-billed ducks that once frequented the area.
Written by urgent.news from The Mainichi's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
