Establishment of the "Kumamoto Water Positive Design Center": Promoting "Water Positive" Initiatives through Rain Gardens and Green Infrastructure

The Prefectural University of Kumamoto, Kumamoto University, The Higo Bank, Suntory Holdings, and MS&AD Insurance Group Holdings have announced the establishment of the "Kumamoto Water Positive Design Center" (Kumamoto WPDC) in Kumamoto City. This initiative, part of the "Kumamoto Water Positive Action" launched in March 2025, aims to promote "Water Positive" outcomes—returning more water to the environment than is consumed—by leveraging Green Infrastructure, such as rain gardens.

Green Infrastructure refers to the strategic use of natural environments to manage rainwater, prevent floods, and enhance biodiversity. A key component of this strategy is the "Rain Garden," a landscaped area designed to capture and slowly infiltrate runoff from roofs and pavements into the ground, rather than directing it straight to sewers. This approach is vital for Kumamoto, a region renowned for its rich groundwater but facing risks from urbanization and reduced natural recharge areas.

Building on the "Second Kumamoto Regional Groundwater Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan," the WPDC has already supported rain garden implementations in local towns like Kikuyo and Kashima. Moving forward, the Center will focus on: 1. Raising awareness and educating the public on Water Positive concepts. 2. Supporting the widespread adoption and standardization of rain gardens. 3. Developing a new financial mechanism that monetizes the value of groundwater recharge through credits, encouraging participation from corporations and residents.

The WPDC plans to host a kickoff event at the "Nature Positive World Summit 2026" in Kumamoto. By sharing knowledge gained through these activities, the Center aims to establish a leading model for water stewardship that contributes to global nature-positive trends.

Organization Profile: - Name: Kumamoto Water Positive Design Center - Established: April 21, 2026 - Representative Director: Yukihiro Shimatani (Special Professor, Prefectural University of Kumamoto) - Location: Within the Prefectural University of Kumamoto