More Trees is Just One Phase in the Ongoing Movement

—You are one of the initiators of more trees. First, could you tell us about Mr. Sakamoto?

Sakamoto's music has profoundly influenced my life. As fellow humans, it's probably wrong, but there are aspects of his work that I completely accept.

—I think I understand.

Sakamoto's commitment to environmental issues stems from his desire to leave a better environment for his son when he was born. He himself has said this was the catalyst for his social activism. More Trees, like his previous actions such as PSE (Product Safety Electrical Appliance) Law and stop-rokkasho, is part of this ongoing journey. The only thing I can say for sure is that I trust him completely.

—Where does that trust come from?

My close collaboration with Sakamoto began around "911." I became involved in publishing the book "Non-War." Witnessing the serious and sincere engagement of Japan's intellectuals, led by Sakamoto, with the issue was a profound shock. That book was completed in about three months, and I suspect Sakamoto barely slept. It was awe-inspiring, and at the same time, incredibly encouraging. It made me wonder, "What can I do?" That's when I decided to create comedy.

Unless It's Tied to Your Daily Life, You Can't Sustain It

I often say that environmental issues are a second chance. They are also a new form of commerce. If these efforts lead to positive change, transforming old values into new ones for the benefit of humanity, that would be wonderful. I can think this way thanks to Sakamoto. The experience of 911 taught me that humans can only change through continuous, proactive effort to learn. It was a profoundly valuable lesson.

—What are your future plans, including with clubking?

As I do now, in the future, I will continue to struggle through all forms of expression: media like print and the internet, visuals, music, events, and T-shirts. There's a specific reason why I insist on organic cotton for my T-shirts.

—All the T-SHIRTS AS MEDIA are organic, aren't they?

Our role is to change values. To someone who asks, "What's wrong with cheap, well-designed T-shirts?" our role as media is to say, "Imagine how many people are suffering because you buy them simply because they're cheap." It's time to say, "Buying from Uniqlo isn't good enough."

—clubking is now in its 20th year.

After 20 years, it feels like we've finally reached the starting line. I strongly feel that things are just beginning now.

—Do you have a message for our readers?

As long as there are people suffering in the world, I don't think we can truly laugh. To laugh, I want to urge people to take action. Consumers have significant power, so first and foremost, I want to tell them to become discerning consumers.

—Thank you very much.