We interviewed Ms. Tokita, who is actively interning in both our Global Sourcing Unit and Research and Development Division. Please read on to learn about how Ms. Tokita, currently a student in Australia, became interested in sustainability and her thoughts on environmental issues.
Name: Himeka Tokita
Department/Position: Global Sourcing Unit and Research and Development Division.
Specialization/Responsibilities: Research and development, system development, methodology and market trend research University: The University of Melbourne (Australia)
Major/Studies: Master of Agricultural Science / Crop science
Reason for Joining: I resonated with Green Carbon’s philosophy of addressing environmental issues while simultaneously developing sustainable businesses.
Previous Experience: Born in Tokyo, graduated from Tokyo Metropolitan Musashi Senior High School, graduated from Tokyo University of Agriculture, Faculty of Bioindustry, currently enrolled in the Master of Agricultural Science program at The University of Melbourne.
Hobbies/How I Spend Days Off: Traveling, watching Korean dramas, cafe hopping
Student Activities/Organizations: One-year exchange program at University Putra Malaysia. Founded and contributed to a student organization that collects used clothes for recycling. Member of Musashino Junior Chorus “Kaze.”
Q. Please introduce yourself briefly, including your career to date.
After graduating from a Japanese university, I began my Master of Agricultural Science program at the University of Melbourne in Australia this July. During my undergraduate studies, I researched biodegradable bioplastics. For my master’s degree, I plan to delve deeper into the mechanisms by which microorganisms decompose carbon in soil and into soil carbon sequestration.
One of my hobbies is watching Korean dramas, and lately, I’ve been studying Korean diligently because I want to understand the dialogue without subtitles!
Q. What motivated you to work at Green Carbon?
I wanted to intern at a company dedicated to solving environmental problems. I had never really thought about connecting environmental issues with business before, so when I first learned about the business Green Carbon was developing, I was both surprised and incredibly excited. The opportunity to utilize my English skills and work with a diverse, international team was also a huge draw.
Q. What kind of work are you involved in? Please tell us about your responsibilities.
In the Research and Development Division, I contribute to building the foundation for new projects by researching and comparatively analyzing the feasibility, duration, and costs of experimental approaches necessary for determining new business directions.
For system development, I’m researching and organizing information related to simulation models used for monitoring carbon farming projects, which is an agricultural method for storing carbon in soil. I’m also involved in developing an application for farmers to input information during their projects.
Q. What challenges have you faced so far?
The most challenging part has been interpreting methodologies. A methodology outlines the procedures and rules for how greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions or removals are scientifically and objectively measured and certified as carbon credits. These specialized documents, often dozens of pages long, were packed with unfamiliar terminology and complex logic. Initially, I had to stop at every sentence, researching each term one by one. This process was incredibly painstaking and required a lot of perseverance, but the joy of deepening my understanding was equally immense.
Even now, it’s a continuous process of trial and error, but experiencing new knowledge and expanding my understanding feels incredibly stimulating and motivates me to keep learning.
Q. Lastly, do you have a message for anyone considering working at Green Carbon？
Green Carbon is a place where anyone with the drive to challenge themselves is given great opportunities. Even if you don’t know something, your desire to “give it a try” will be supported, allowing you to expand your future potential.
For those with a strong passion to solve environmental problems with your own power, Green Carbon is the ultimate field. I look forward to the day we can take on challenges together!
