January 2009
67 posts
Totoro Forest Project
Sayama Forrest is one of the most remarkable urban forests (approximately 8750 acres) in Japan located right outside of Tokyo. This forest is said to be where the idea for the masterpiece “My Neighbor Totoro” originated from. With Japan’s rapid urban development in the 70’s and 80’s, the forest has been losing its land. In 1990, the director of My Neighbor Totoro, Hayao Miyazaki helped set up the national trust, Totoro no Furusato Fund to preserve the environment in the park.
The foundation has successfully raised over 3 million dollars and has over 1500 members. The fund has been mainly used to buy the various parts of the land of the forest back from the city and its members have been involved with various nature preservation volunteer activities.
The Busycle ::: HomeThe Busycle, a 15 person 100% pedal powered bus, runs solely on the energy of its passengers. Although driven by a Busycle driver, all passengers are required to pull their weight and pedal in their seats. The Busycle requires individuals to use their own will and physical strength to come together as a group to go from point A to B. By bringing the intersection of art and activism to the street, the Busycle asks the public to participate in a small movement.
