Japanese authorities have ratified a comprehensive new strategy aimed at significantly reducing the wild bear population to protect human lives and property. The plan, which extends through 2030, outlines a systematic approach to managing the increasing conflicts between humans and wildlife. This official document responds to a surge in bear sightings and attacks in residential areas across several Japanese prefectures.

The approved measures set specific targets for bear removal across different regions of the country. According to the strategic guidelines, thousands of bears will be captured in the Tohoku, Chubu, and Kanto regions to lower the immediate risk to citizens. On the island of Hokkaido alone, local authorities plan to eliminate over 12,500 bears between 2025 and 2034. These regional quotas are based on detailed environmental assessments and historical data on human-bear encounters.

In areas where bear attacks are most frequent, the government aims to decrease the current population by as much as 65% by 2030. In regions with fewer incidents, the focus will remain on maintaining current population levels and preventing further growth. To support these efforts, the workforce dedicated to wildlife management will be tripled to 2,500 personnel, equipped with 10,000 specialized traps and 20,000 repellent aerosol units to deter the animals effectively.

The implementation of this large-scale plan reflects a significant shift in Japan's environmental policy, prioritizing public safety in response to changing wildlife behaviors. While the strategy involves substantial population control, officials emphasize that it will be executed within a framework of ecological balance. The primary objective is to restore a safe distance between wildlife habitats and human settlements, ensuring the long-term security of local communities.