Pestalozzi Technology K.K. has announced the environmental benefits of its digital physical fitness test system, ALPHA, coinciding with Earth Day on April 22, 2025. The company, headquartered in Tokyo, has been promoting the digitalization of physical fitness tests since 2020, significantly reducing paper usage in schools.
In fiscal year 2024, approximately 1.6 million children and students utilized the ALPHA system, resulting in an impressive estimated savings of about 3.2 million sheets of paper. This reduction corresponds to the protection of over 25.6 tons of forest resources and the conservation of more than 1280 tons of water.
ALPHA is designed to streamline the process of conducting physical fitness tests, which traditionally relied on paper records and manual data entry. With ALPHA, students can input their results directly into a digital platform, allowing teachers to access and manage data more efficiently. This transition not only enhances the accuracy of the results but also significantly reduces the administrative burden on educators.
The application is compatible with various devices, including PCs, tablets, and smartphones, making it accessible for schools that have adopted technology under the GIGA School initiative. The digital nature of ALPHA allows for real-time data collection and immediate feedback, including recommended exercise videos based on the results.
Pestalozzi Technology's commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in its efforts to promote the use of ALPHA in educational settings. The company aims to improve students' physical fitness while simultaneously contributing to the preservation of the planet. As the world observes Earth Day, initiatives like ALPHA highlight the potential for technology to foster a more sustainable future.
Meanwhile, Earth Day 2025 marks the 55th anniversary of this global observance, with this year's theme being "Our Power, Our Planet." This theme emphasizes the importance of collective action in addressing environmental issues and promoting sustainability.
In addition to Pestalozzi Technology's efforts, the first 'Kering Generation Award Japan' was held in Spring 2025, organized by Kering, a group that includes luxury brands such as Gucci and Saint Laurent. Launched in China in 2018, the award aims to support startups that address sustainability challenges, including alternative materials and recycling technologies.
At the inaugural ceremony in Japan, Farmen Station took home the top prize, while Anfico and Algal Bio secured second and third places, respectively. MicroBio Factory received a special award. The top three companies will have the opportunity to participate in training and networking at Kering's headquarters in Paris, as well as exhibit at the upcoming ChangeNOW sustainability summit at the end of April 2025.
Farmen Station's recognition underscores the growing importance of innovative solutions in the fashion industry, particularly as it transitions towards more sustainable practices. Kering's CEO, François-Henri Pinault, emphasized the significance of hosting the award in Japan, a country known for its deep understanding of innovation and craftsmanship.
Algal Bio, a Tokyo University-based biotech venture specializing in microalgae, has been making strides in sustainability. With over 100 species and 1260 strains of microalgae, the company is involved in more than 30 projects annually, developing products such as microalgae powder-based seasonings and exploring its potential as a sleep aid.
Microalgae are notable for their exceptional carbon dioxide absorption rates, significantly surpassing that of traditional trees like cedar. They also contribute approximately 50% of the Earth's oxygen, highlighting their vital role in maintaining ecological balance.
As Earth Day 2025 unfolds, initiatives like Pestalozzi Technology's ALPHA and Kering's Generation Award illustrate the growing intersection of technology, sustainability, and education. These efforts not only aim to enhance current practices but also inspire future generations to embrace environmentally friendly solutions.
