The Rise of Symbiotic Agriculture in Japan: Kyōsei Nōhō (協生農法) Embracing Harmony and Sustainability

Introduction to Symbiotic Agriculture

In Japan, a distinct approach to farming, known as “Kyōsei Nōhō” (協生農法), pronounced “Kyo-sei No-ho,” has been gaining momentum. This concept, translated into English as “Symbiotic Agriculture,” champions a philosophy where all organisms in an ecosystem coexist harmoniously, promoting sustainable and productive agricultural practices.

History of Symbiotic Agriculture in Japan

The inception of Symbiotic Agriculture in Japan is deeply rooted in traditional agricultural practices. One key figure in the development of this philosophy was Mokichi Okada, who established Nature Farming in 1936. Initially named “no fertilizer farming” or “Shizen Nōhō” (自然農法), this practice laid the foundation for what would evolve into a comprehensive approach to farming in sync with nature’s rhythms and resources​​. Read the full history of agriculture.

Principles and Practices of Symbiotic Agriculture

Symbiotic Agriculture in Japan is characterized by a set of practices aimed at maintaining ecological balance. These include:

• Use of Cover Crops and Green Manure: To enhance soil fertility and prevent erosion.
• Crop Rotation Systems: To maintain soil health and manage pests naturally.
• Natural Pest and Disease Control: Relying on ecological balance rather than synthetic chemicals.
• Integration of Livestock: To create a more comprehensive, self-sustaining agricultural ecosystem.
• Conservation Tillage and Organic Fertilizers: To maintain soil integrity and promote its health.

These practices collectively work towards sustaining the natural environment, ensuring food security, and fostering a symbiotic relationship between agriculture and ecology.

Benefits of Symbiotic Agriculture

Symbiotic Agriculture in Japan, also known as “Kyōsei Nōhō,” is characterized by practices aimed at maintaining ecological balance. These practices include:

• Use of Cover Crops and Green Manure: These methods enhance soil fertility and prevent erosion, crucial for maintaining the health of farmlands.
• Crop Rotation Systems: Implementing rotation of different crops maintains soil health and manages pests naturally, reducing the need for synthetic inputs.
• Natural Pest and Disease Control: By relying on ecological balance rather than synthetic chemicals, farmers can manage pests and diseases in a way that supports the overall health of the ecosystem.
• Integration of Livestock: Incorporating livestock into farming practices creates a more comprehensive, self-sustaining agricultural ecosystem, closing nutrient cycles and reducing waste.
• Conservation Tillage and Organic Fertilizers: These practices maintain soil integrity and promote its health, ensuring long-term agricultural productivity.

Collectively, these practices work towards sustaining the natural environment, ensuring food security, and fostering a symbiotic relationship between agriculture and ecology.

An extension of these principles can be seen in the concept of Synecoculture, an innovative method of farming that produces useful plants while utilizing the self-organizing ability of a local ecosystem. This approach, developed by Takashi Otsuka of the Sakura Shizenjuku Global Nature Network and scientifically formalized by Masatoshi Funabashi of Sony Computer Science Laboratory, is characterized by a comprehensive ecosystem utilization method. It considers not only food production but also the impacts on the environment and health.

Synecoculture is practiced in open fields without the use of plowing, fertilizers, agricultural chemicals, or any artificial inputs except for seeds and saplings. This method allows for the creation and management of ecosystems that highlight the essential qualities of plants in their natural state, producing crops in an ecologically optimized environment.

This approach is particularly relevant in the context of the 6th mass extinction, primarily caused by human activities, including inappropriate agricultural practices. The large consumption of natural resources by conventional agriculture is leading to failures in the material cycles of nature, exacerbating climate change and threatening ocean ecosystems. The fertilizers and chemicals commonly used to increase agricultural productivity pose risks to food safety and health.

Given the increasing human population and the consequent rising demand for food, shifting to food production methods that restore health to both people and the planet is vital. Synecoculture, particularly suitable for small- to medium-sized farms that make up a significant portion of global agricultural holdings, offers a sustainable alternative that does not compromise biodiversity.

The concept of Synecoculture has been embraced not only in Japan but also internationally, with the establishment of centers like the African Center for Research and Training in Synecoculture in Burkina Faso. Furthermore, a virtual laboratory on the Complex Systems Digital Campus of the UNESCO UniTwin program has been established to further research and spread the principles of Synecoculture.

This approach shows that even a small piece of land, when managed with respect for its natural ecosystem, can contribute to a sustainable and productive agricultural future. Through these practices, Symbiotic Agriculture and Synecoculture in Japan demonstrate a path forward for harmonious, sustainable farming globally.

Impact of Symbiotic Agriculture in Japan

The implementation of Symbiotic Agriculture has positively influenced Japan’s environmental and food systems. The approach has seen increasing adoption among Japanese farmers and consumers, indicative of a growing awareness and preference for sustainable agricultural practices. Governmental support and initiatives have also played a role in promoting this form of agriculture.

Future of Symbiotic Agriculture in Japan

Looking forward, Symbiotic Agriculture holds the potential to transform Japan’s agricultural industry. Challenges like broadening its adoption and overcoming traditional farming barriers are present, but the opportunities and benefits it offers make it a compelling model for the future of sustainable agriculture in Japan and beyond.

Kyōsei Nōhō or Symbiotic Agriculture is more than just a farming method; it represents a shift towards a more sustainable, ecologically sound approach to agriculture. Its focus on harmony with nature, soil health, and biodiversity renders it an exemplary model for the future of sustainable agriculture globally.

For further detailed insights into the practices, history, and benefits of Symbiotic Agriculture, the pioneering work of Mokichi Okada and the broader context of Shizen Nōhō offer valuable perspectives and are essential resources in understanding this unique approach to farming​​​​​​.