As part of the "Local Wood Development Subcommittee" activities of the Okawa Furniture Association in Fukuoka, a China berry (Sendan) tree-planting ceremony was held at Green Pia Yame. This marks SHIKI's third time participating. In addition to about 50 people including furniture makers, members of the forestry cooperative, and local students, the Mayor of Yame was also in attendance.
Although Sendan is a hardwood, it grows faster than softwoods like cedar or cypress, and with a harvest cycle that is about 2–3 times shorter, it is expected to help revitalize the forestry industry. Furthermore, it is said to have about three times the CO2 absorption capacity of typical hardwoods, playing a role in curbing global warming.
This tree-planting activity was conducted as part of a project to create a cycle of growing Sendan, crafting it into furniture, and delivering it to consumers.
About Sendan
https://i-shiki.jp/blogs/column/sendan-exhibition-202603
Across this vast site, about 100 stakes marked with pink ribbons were prepared, and we proceeded to plant seedlings beside them.
I don't think tree planting is something you can easily experience in everyday life. Having joined SHIKI from a completely different industry, I could not have imagined two months ago that I would be digging the earth, touching the soil, and planting saplings.
However, I felt that taking the time to engage with nature is incredibly meaningful and empowering. The pleasant fatigue and sense of fulfillment I felt afterwards are things I could only have tasted by experiencing it firsthand.
Thinking that these thin saplings I planted with my own hands will grow into magnificent trees in about 20 years, be reborn as furniture, and connect to the next generation makes me truly excited for the future.
At SHIKI, we use solid Sendan wood for our "MITSUKI" and "totte" series. We hope to continue our activities to connect Sendan to the future and convey its charm to as many people as possible.
