TOKYO - The Emperor and Empress attended the Greenery Ceremony, an annual event honoring researchers who have made outstanding contributions in fields such as plant and forest conservation.
The Imperial couple arrived at the venue in Tokyo's Chiyoda Ward around 4 p.m., greeting officials upon their arrival.
The ceremony is held in conjunction with Greenery Day, which falls on May 4th, and aims to raise public awareness of environmental preservation.
At the event, the Emperor and Empress applauded as the Green Academic Prize was awarded to two researchers: Kyoto University Professor Emeritus Yukihiro Morimoto, recognized for his work in urban ecological restoration, and Tohoku University Professor Junko Keizuka, honored for her research into plant growth processes.
After the ceremony, the Emperor and Empress engaged warmly with the awardees, asking questions such as "Was there a particular reason that inspired your work?" and "Is it difficult to preserve wetlands?" The couple listened attentively and showed deep interest in the researchers' efforts, also asking, "What would you like to try next?"
Source: TBS
