Shiretoko is highly acclaimed for its rich ecosystem and rare biodiversity connected by drift ice. To commemorate the 20th anniversary of its registration as a World Heritage Site, a special talk will be held in which the key figures behind the registration will share their precious stories from that time.

■Program:
13:30-14:10 Part 1: Connecting to the Future! Award Ceremony for the Northern Living Creatures Protection Award (official name: Hokkaido Biodiversity Conservation Activity Award)
An awards ceremony will be held to recognize organizations that have carried out excellent or exemplary activities related to biodiversity conservation in Hokkaido, and the award winners will give presentations on their activities.

14:30-16:00 Part 2: Talk session commemorating the 20th anniversary of Shiretoko's registration as a World Natural Heritage Site
"The key figure behind Shiretoko's World Heritage registration looks back on the past 20 years and what lies ahead"
The key figures in the region and those who made distinguished contributions to the country's efforts to register the site as a World Heritage Site will come together to discuss the difficulties they faced leading up to the registration, the current state of Shiretoko after 20 years, and prospects for the future. Through these valuable stories, we hope to take a deeper look at Shiretoko at this milestone of 20 years since its registration, and take a new step towards passing it on to the next generation.