Feature Article
ENRICHING PEOPLE'S LIVESWITH FOOD PRODUCTION ANDENERGY IN THE NEXT 100 YEARS
Yanmar Group's brand statement is "A Sustainable Future." This statement encapsulates our commitment to achieving New Prosperity through Technology, to achieve at a higher level both a sustainable natural environment and sustainable prosperity for all.
Expressing our four visions for society: "an energy-saving society," "a society where people can work and live with peace of mind," "a society where people can enjoy safe and plentiful food," and "a society that offers an exciting life filled with rich and fulfilling experiences" as a tangible expression of our future vision for "A Sustainable Future," Yanmar is promoting initiatives looking forward to the next 100 years.
As a result of the increasing population and the growth of economic activity, particularly in emerging countries, the world is faced with numerous social problems, including energy demand, food shortages, and increasing CO2 emissions impacting on the environment, leading to climate change and so on. As a technology-oriented company "realizing the maximum prosperity using the minimum resources," Yanmar will progressively find solutions through its business operations, making effective use of energy, enhancing agricultural efficiency and saving labor, and realizing recycling-oriented food production.
Issues Faced Worldwide
Population Issues
The world's population is currently increasing rapidly. According to preliminary estimates from organizations such as the United Nations, if the population continues to grow at the same pace, it will top nine billion people in 2050. That increase is expected to have various effects on the supply and demand of food, energy, and other environmental issues.
Energy Issues
57% of the world's population is concentrated in cities, and the inflow of people is expected to continue to accelerate in the future. Due to increasing demand for urban infrastructure construction and growth in economic activity, demand for forms of energy such as gas and electricity are on the rise, making energy efficiency essential.
Food Issues
As a result of the increasing population, the growth of the world's food supply is not expected to keep pace with demand, and severe food shortages are predicted. In Japan, the number of farmers is declining year by year, and approximately 40% of those farmers are senior citizens aged 65 or older. The abandonment of farms due to a shortage of successors, etc. has been highlighted as an issue that needs to be tackled.
Environmental Issues
Climate change resulting from increases in CO2 emissions in recent years is causing frequent occurrences of unusual weather phenomena including heavy localized rainstorms and soaring temperatures in every part of the world. This climatic instability is beginning to affect agricultural output. Furthermore, environmental regulations governing corporate manufacturing and products are being tightened, which means that efforts need to be made to reduce energy usage and CO2 emissions.
Our Four Future Visions for "A Sustainable Future"
VISION01
An Energy-saving Society
Expanding the possibilities of energy. Using affordable and safe power, electricity, and heat, whenever necessary and only as much as necessary.
VISION02
A Society Where People Can Work and Live with Peace of Mind
Transforming harsh labor into comfortable work. Everyone can work comfortably and earn a steady income while living a rich life in harmony with nature.
VISION03
A Society Where People Can Enjoy Safe and Plentiful Food
Ensuring delicious, safe, and nutritious food, anywhere in the world, at any time. Everyone can live a healthier life.
VISION04
A Society Filled with Rich and Fulfilling Experiences
Creating a world where work and leisure is enriching and enjoyable. We will continue to increase the quality of life for everyone.
