Name: Kosei Watanabe
Department / Position: Domestic Business Unit
Specialization / Responsibilities: ESG Consulting
University: Keio University
Major / Area of Study: Linguistics (English Linguistics)
How I joined Green Carbon: Introduced by Hanbi, a member of the same seminar
Background: Graduated from Nobeoka Gakuen High School (Miyazaki) → Enrolled at Keio University
Hobbies / How I spend my free time: Running, all kinds of sports, traveling, part-time jobs, socializing
Student Activities / Organizations: Crossminton Club, Environmental Conservation Volunteer, Keio Student Conference 2024
Q. Could you briefly introduce yourself, including your background?
My name is Kosei Watanabe, a fourth-year student majoring in English and American Literature at Keio University. In my first year of high school, I participated in the Global English Camp, an event focused on the SDGs, which sparked my passion for social issues and led me to take part in various initiatives including Soroptimist. This deepened my awareness of SDGs-related challenges.
In my third year of university, I joined the Keio Student Conference committee and launched a project that regenerated ocean plastic waste into denim, a specialty product of Okayama, in collaboration with local communities and businesses. Academically, I’m conducting research on “disambiguating homonyms and polysemy,” with the hope that it might eventually contribute to improving the accuracy of generative AI.
Q. What motivated you to join Green Carbon?
I’ve always been interested in the SDGs and wanted to be involved in solving environmental issues in particular. I was introduced to Green Carbon by Hanbi, a member of the same seminar. During the initial interview, I was drawn to the company’s bold mission to tackle environmental issues through uncharted methods. That challenge really inspired me to join.
Q. What kind of work are you currently involved in?
Things have been a bit calmer recently, but I’ve mainly been working on human rights policies within our ESG consulting projects. I find it really engaging to think about what the client truly needs and what kind of supplemental data is necessary to support the consulting process. In the past two weeks, my work schedule has had some gaps, so I’m trying to be more consistent with my attendance.
Q. What do you find rewarding about your work?
Even tasks that seem quite advanced for an intern are entrusted to me with the support of full-time staff, which gives me a strong sense of trust and responsibility. Because of this, I feel that I’m developing my skills quickly. I’m also grateful that, rather than being given step-by-step instructions, I’m encouraged to think independently and take initiative—this helps me grow and prepares me for the future.
Q. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I hope to work at the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications or the Ministry of the Environment. Having grown up in Miyazaki, I’ve been closely exposed to both local government issues and environmental challenges. That’s why I want to contribute to regional development and environmental preservation in the future.
Q. What has made you happy since joining Green Carbon?
The warm welcome from both the staff and fellow interns! I believe the atmosphere of a workplace and the personalities of its people are crucial, and in that sense, I feel incredibly lucky to be part of such a great team. Everyone is open to hearing new ideas or suggestions, which makes it easy to stay motivated and embrace new challenges.
Q. Do you have a message for those considering joining Green Carbon?
Starting this year, Green Carbon has introduced a club activity system! I’ve established the very first club—the futsal club. It’s a great way to refresh and build closer relationships with colleagues through sports, beyond just work. The team here is truly supportive and kind, always encouraging interns to grow their skills with a long-term perspective in mind. I highly recommend joining us!
