TOKYO — On October 1, 2024, Shizenkan University in collaboration with IESE Business School and with support from the Japan Association of Corporate Executives (Keizai Doyukai), hosted a groundbreaking event at the Shizenkan Campus, marking the very first introduction of Doughnut Economics in Japan. The event was part of “The Future of Capitalism” project, an ongoing exploration of different approaches to redefine economic systems for a sustainable future.

The keynote address was delivered by Kate Raworth, the Co-founder and Conceptual Lead of the Doughnut Economics Action Lab (DEAL), and Senior Visiting Research Associate at Oxford University’s Environmental Change Institute. Her insightful presentation focused on the foundation of Doughnut Economics, a model designed to guide humanity in meeting the needs of all people while living within the ecological limits of the planet. Raworth emphasized the importance of adopting this approach not only for societal prosperity but also for ensuring that we become good ancestors for future generations.

Following Raworth’s presentation, a high-profile panel discussion engaged the audiences in deeper discussions. Speakers included Erinch Sahan (Business and Enterprise Lead, DEAL), Tak Niinami (CEO of Suntory, Chairperson of the Japan Association of Corporate Executives), Ichita Yamamoto (Governor of Gunma Prefecture), and Yumiko Noda (Chairman of Veolia Japan KK). The panel explored practical applications of Doughnut Economics within organizations and by local governments, offering new perspectives on how companies can hopefully shift their operational models to align with the needs of both people and the planet.

The event saw a strong interest, with approximately 70 attendees at the venue and over 380 participants joining online, reflecting a growing curiosity in sustainable economic practices.