In the “Hotaru no Tani” (Firefly Valley) Restoration Project, led by Professor Yanase of the Institute for Liberal Arts at Institute of Science Tokyo, Komatsu’s electric micro excavator PC05E-1 played an active role in the maintenance and development of terraced rice fields.

     Professor Yanase has been working to restore the environment by reclaiming the wetland within the retention basin located at the center of the Suzukakedai Campus, transforming it into terraced rice fields. In time, rice will grow, freshwater snails will thrive larvae—an essential stage in the firefly life cycle—will develop, and fireflies will eventually light up the area. It is envisioned as a truly beautiful and vibrant natural space.

     We are also delighted that the electric micro excavator PC05E-1 could contribute to this effort. For those of us engaged in research supporting the electrification of construction machinery, this is especially encouraging news.