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Japan: ginkgo trees threatened by a vast real estate project in Tokyo
Japan: ginkgo trees, trees threatened by a vast real estate project in Tokyo – (France 2)
In Japan, residents of Tokyo are mobilizing against a vast real estate project that would lead to the felling of ginkgo trees. Planted in the last century in honor of the emperor, these trees represent eternity in the country, and their leaves are the symbol of Tokyo.
In the glass and steel jungle of Tokyo (Japan), there is a natural setting. It is an emblematic alley with rows of ginkgo trees, with golden foliage every autumn, which delight passers-by. These trees planted in the last century in honor of the emperor represent eternity in Japan. “The ginkgo leaf is also the symbol of the city of Tokyo”, indicates a Japanese woman. But today, these much-admired ginkgo trees are threatened by a major real estate project: a complex in the heart of the capital, with shopping centers, sports facilities and Skyscraper residential on 17 hectares.
“The problem with this project is that it is private land”
Tokyoites refuse to allow trees to be cut down, and are mobilizing to save the little greenery that still exists in the city. Demonstrations took place, and petitions were posted online to cancel the project. According to a recent survey, 77% Tokyoites want the project to be canceled. Legal appeals yielded nothing. “The problem with this project is that it is private land”explains Mami Oku, professor of environmental law. The work has already started.
