The dwindling rural population in Japan raises concerns for the future sustainability of its agricultural sector. In response to this crisis, the SAP Co-Innovation Lab, in collaboration with its partner PSI and the local government, has initiated a transformative project in the town of Minano. This unique venture aims to breathe new life into rural communities through the implementation of advanced technology and innovative strategies.
Rural areas of Japan, like most developed nations, grapple with significant demographic challenges. An alarming decline in the younger generation’s interest coupled with an increasing average age contributes to the gradual desertion of farms. This trend has sparked concerns in sectors beyond agriculture, prompting the Japanese government to launch a national action plan to rejuvenate these rural spaces.
In the small town of Minano, nestled in the hills of Saitama Prefecture, SAP Japan is pioneering a revolution. Here, the SAP Co-Innovation Lab is working closely with PSI and local authorities to challenge the norm. They aim to leverage cutting-edge digital solutions to address the agricultural sector’s lingering issues, including the difficulty of maintaining scattered small-scale farms.
Understanding the dire need for innovative solutions, Yoshihisa Horiguchi, chairman of MINNANO Future Create, has dedicated his efforts towards tackling population loss. He acknowledges the critical nature of these demographic challenges, pointing out the steep decline in the number of farm workers over the years due to urban migration.
Horiguchi believes that digitization could potentially halt these areas’ depopulation, despite the substantial financial and logistical challenges tied to implementing such solutions in small-scale farms.
The Dawn of IoT-Driven Agriculture
The Minano Digital Eco Farm project, initiated by MINNANO Future Create, further represents a significant leap in this transformative journey. This project was conceived with a vision to establish a digital platform that bridges the gap between farmers and urban dwellers while connecting isolated, small-scale farms to larger supply chains.
Atsushi Minakuchi, a senior solution specialist at the SAP Co-Innovation Lab in Japan, highlights the use of Internet of Things (IoT) sensors managed remotely from headquarters. These sensors, integrated into the SAP Business Technology Platform (SAP BTP), also monitor agricultural activities providing real-time data and insights. In addition, the Digital Material Controller (DMC), an all-in-one compact edge controlling server, ensures seamless and secure data integration and analysis.
Mitsuhiro Yamazaki, a senior advisor at PSI, recognizes the significant cybersecurity capabilities of the DMC, ensuring the secure storage and transmission of collected data. On the other hand, Masaki Fukui, a respected figure in the cybersecurity realm, now serving the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communication, appreciates the role of SAP Co-Innovation Lab in expanding the application possibilities of the DMC.
SAP Co-Innovation Lab Nurtures Sustainable Communities
Apart from invigorating the agricultural sector, the Minano Digital Eco Farm project has made significant strides in strengthening the appeal of rural tourism. The project allows city dwellers to support rural farms digitally, wherein they can monitor and back agricultural processes in return for a share of the farm produce.
The Japanese government’s unique hometown tax payment program has been instrumental in attracting public support towards such initiatives. Hidenori Kurosawa, the vice governor of Minano, emphasizes the importance of captivating the public’s interest in rural areas. The aim is to offer an enriching experience that allows visitors to interact with locals and appreciate the area’s unique offerings.
Pioneering initiatives like the Minano Digital Eco Farm project further hold immense potential in addressing severe issues faced by rural areas. These initiatives also promote the reclamation of abandoned farmland and self-sufficiency in food production while reducing CO2 emissions and improving farm profitability.
Masaki Fukui from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communication elucidates the significance of this initiative, suggesting that it could inspire similar endeavors worldwide. By embracing digital innovations and collaborative practices, the SAP Co-Innovation Lab is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of rural Japan, making it a promising destination “for everyone.”
