Q. Please briefly introduce yourself.
I am currently a fourth-year student at the University of Tokyo’s faculty of Agriculture and a long-term intern in the Global Sourcing division at Green Carbon.
In university, I major in environmental studies and last year, during my one year study abroad experience in Australia, I learned about a wide range of topics, such as mechanisms of global warming and the balance between environmental conservation and social activities. Currently, I am engaged in research on “blue carbon,” focusing on the carbon absorption and sequestration in seaweed. The creation of seaweed beds is recognized as a carbon credit initiative, and it is fascinating to see how my studies connect with Green Carbon’s projects.
My future dream is to visit oceans around the world! While studying abroad, I was deeply moved by the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and Pacific islands. I hope to spend the rest of my life travelling to see various oceans in different countries.
Q. What motivated you to work at Green Carbon?
When I was searching for a long-term internship, my friend from university introduced me to Green Carbon.
The main reason I chose Green Carbon was because I felt it was a place where my research could contribute to society. While researching the carbon absorption and sequestration potential of seaweed in university, I came to a realization that I wanted to move beyond basic research, and pursue activities with social impact. Given that seaweed and mangroves are handled as carbon credits, I believed that an internship at Green Carbon would allow me the opportunity to make reality of what I wanted to do. Thus, leading to my decision of joining the company. Working here has enabled me to envision how my studies can be applied to society and has given me greater motivation towards my research. Joining this company was truly a great decision.
Another reason was because of the opportunity to be involved in overseas business. In the future, I wish to work in an international field. Therefore, at Green Carbon, where even interns can be involved in overseas business operations, I find it rewarding to be able to make a contribution utilizing my English skills gained from studying abroad.
Q. What kind of work are you involved in? Please tell us your experience.
As part of the Global Sourcing division, I am responsible for a wide range of work, including preliminary research for carbon credit projects and creating proposals for investors. I evaluate the compatibility of proposed projects with methodologies, assess their profitability, and compile reports based on the output. It is challenging to compare and analyze large amounts of methodological documents in English, however, I find it rewarding knowing my work directly impacts investment decisions.
Currently, I am also in charge of drafting methodologies for presenting to government agencies. I am involved in large scale projects, with the possibility of my proposals potentially becoming global standards. Furthermore, I have had the opportunity to represent the company at startup events, engaging with business representatives as a spokesperson for Green Carbon. Initially, I was surprised to be entrusted with such significant responsibilities as an intern, but I feel that this challenging environment has led to my personal growth.
Q. What challenges have you faced so far?
One of the toughest challenges has been to “communicate the complexities of the carbon credit business in a clear and precise way.” In particular, it was frustrating when I struggled to provide convincing answers to questions from business representatives during a startup event.
Carbon credits is an abstract concept, and market trends change rapidly on a daily basis. Therefore, I greatly felt the need to gain a deeper understanding of both Green Carbon’s strengths and the industry as a whole, and to have the skills to convey these ideas more effectively. Through this experience, I have become more aware of putting myself in other’s shoes, even in my daily tasks such as preparing documents, and have worked to achieve a deeper understanding.
Q. Finally, do you have a message for those who want to work at Green Carbon?
Carbon credits may be an unfamiliar field to some, however, that is what makes it all the more exciting as a place for new challenges. The team at Green carbon is passionate and supportive, and it is a great environment which encourages interns to express their opinions and take on new challenges. I myself wish I had joined the company earlier (haha).
Whether you’re interested in environmental business, overseas projects, or simply looking to do something interesting and develop new skills, I look forward to meeting you! Let’s take on these challenges together!