To promote environmental awareness to young people in North America, Nippon TV and the UN Environment Programme have partnered on a series of animated public service announcements. They feature the popular Japanese characters Sorajiro, Potsie and Kumo who have been adapted to appeal to “tweens” in the U.S. and Canada.
Sorajiro and his friends love planet earth and the great outdoors! The trio is learning and demonstrating how to protect the environment in their daily lives. Every video shows a new, easy action that viewers can take, such as recycling, eliminating single-use plastic products and reducing food waste.
The videos directly relate to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Kumo is encouraged to use a reusable towel rather than paper towel because it’s better for the environment. Paper towels are made of trees and contribute to the seven million hectares of forest destroyed every year—an area roughly the size of Portugal. #BeatPollution #GreenYourLife
If you can’t reuse it, refuse it
Potsie learns about the harmful effects of plastic waste on animals, especially in the ocean where more than 8 million tonnes end up every year. #BeatPlasticPollution #CleanSeas
Sorajiro becomes aware that large vehicles pollute the air. Air pollution kills 6.5 million people globally each year. Riding a bicycle or walking are more environmentally-friendly methods of mobility. #BreatheLife
Potsie learns that it takes a lot of water, electricity and fuel to get a piece of fruit to her kitchen. More than one-third of the food produced around the world is lost or wasted and throwing unused food away is wasteful. #ThinkEatSave
About Sorajiro
Sorajiro, one of Japan’s most beloved heroes for children, has featured on the live weather report on Nippon TV’s daily news show “news every.” since 2007. His role is to help young people understand environmental issues.
About Nippon TV
Nippon TV, established in 1953, is Japan’s largest commercial broadcaster. The company has a longstanding relationship with the United Nations and actively works with several of its agencies around the world.
About the Sustainable Development Goals
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that everyone can enjoy peace and prosperity.
Sorajiro and his friends are helping to promote the following SDGs:
- 6 – Clean water and sanitation
- 12 – Responsible consumption and production
- 13 – Climate action
- 14 – Life below water
- 15 – Life on land
