We are creating spaces where a wealth of living organisms, which are rarely found in urban areas, assemble and live together (biotopes), and at the same time, we are pouring effort into having such spaces utilized as spaces for feeling close to nature.
Bio Garden (Urban Dock LaLaport Toyosu)
Development of a Bio Garden
At Urban Dock LaLaport Toyosu, we imported the concept of a biotope. We rearranged a garden (approximately 800 square meters) which originally had a pond in it and built a garden named Bio Garden where various living organisms assemble and inhabit together. It opened in July 2010 and its goal is to create a space where human beings and living organisms can coexist.
In the pond, we planted Ottelia japonica, Nymphaea tetragona, etc. and at the water's edge, we planted grassy-leaved sweet flag, Iris ensata var. spontanea, Miscanthus sacchariflorus, Susuki grass, etc. We constructed revetments made of natural stone on parts of the waterfront. In addition to the existing woodland, we planted Quercus myrsinaefolia, Quercus serrata, etc. in order to re-enact a diversified environment to provide a habitat for insects and wild birds. Furthermore, we released an endangered species, Japanese medaka, as well as Atyidae, larvae of the common skimmer, etc. into the water.
In commemoration of its opening, we held an event for around 100 local elementary school children to release Japanese medaka into the pond.
We will conduct operations so that this place provides an opportunity for children to gain an interest in and concern for the natural environment and so that more people might ponder the importance of preserving biodiversity.
When undertaking development of urban areas where there is little green, we strive to increase greenery in accordance with the characteristics of the local area or property. Simultaneously, we strive to preserve the valuable greenery that already exists in urban areas, such as existing trees, plants and forest.
Initiatives at Mitsui Outlet Park Shiga Ryuo
At Mitsui Outlet Park Shiga Ryuo (Gamou-gun, Shiga Prefecture), we are building a facility based on the concept of “An Outlet Mall in Harmony with the Environment” by making use of the rich nature of the local area.
We provided green spaces mainly at the peripheries of an adjacent spring-fed pond and have ensured that around 25% of the facility's site area is green space. We have distributed a variety of plants in the main green space named Berry Garden where the seasons come to life, as well as a symbolic tree over 16 meters high in the lawn-covered plaza at the front end. Furthermore, activities to promote the creation of promenades lined with cherry blossom trees are being carried out in the Town of Ryuo. Accordingly, we replanted Someiyoshino (Prunus yedoensis) that were originally planted in the premises along the neighboring Yaetani sand basin and created a promenade lined with cherry blossom trees. Moreover, in order to have guests learn about the good qualities of the area called Ryuo, we planted the purple rhododendron reticulatum, which only grows gregariously in the Town of Ryuo and the neighboring Town of Hino.
In addition, we have incorporated wall greenery, pergola*7 and grass parking.
(*7) Pergola: A lattice-shaped, horizontal shelf comprised of cross-beams usually supported by pillars, with climbing plants entwined between the lattices. It is also called ivy trellis, green passageway, or shaded walk.
