Eco-First Program
On February 17, 2022, our group was certified as an “Eco-First Company” under the Ministry of the Environment’s Eco-First Program, which promotes environmental initiatives by corporations.
Our efforts across childcare, human resources, and nursing care, along with our group-wide environmental goals, were recognized as “advanced, unique, and impactful.”
Left: Tokutaro Nakai, Vice Minister of the Environment / Right: LIKE President Yasuhiko Okamoto
LIKE Group’s Eco-First Commitment (overview)
- We will promote environmental education through our business activities and contribute to the development of human resources that support a sustainable society.
- We will focus on reducing our environmental impact through our business activities and act proactively to achieve a circular economy.
- We will reduce CO2 emissions and actively work to create a decarbonized society.
- We will engage in environmentally friendly management and contribute broadly to environmental conservation.
- We will not only contribute to solving social issues but also support companies that are working to solve ESG-related issues.
About the Eco-First Program
Established in 2008 by Japan’s Ministry of the Environment, the Eco-First Program certifies companies that make official commitments to the Minister regarding proactive initiatives in environmental conservation—such as climate change response and recycling. Certified companies are recognized as industry leaders in innovative and independent sustainability practices.
Eco-Stage Certification
On August 21, 2025, our group received Eco-Stage certification, an environmental management system developed by the Eco-Stage Association. We adopted this system to promote environmental awareness and sustainable business practices. We are the first company in Japan to receive this certification across our three main business areas: childcare, human resources, and nursing care.
Through our childcare, human resources, and nursing care businesses, LIKE is committed to reducing environmental impact and promoting environmental education. We aim to help build a sustainable society and advance a circular economy.
In our childcare facilities, we choose buildings designed with environmental considerations in mind. Interiors and furniture use domestically sourced cypress wood that has reached its optimal harvest age. We also host events and food education programs focused on environmental issues, including regular nature experiences and recycling workshops for children. In our human resources business, we reduce travel by conducting candidate interviews and other meetings online. In our nursing care facilities, we provide residents with opportunities to connect with nature through recreational activities and events.
Comments from the Tokyo Third-Party Evaluation Committee, Eco-Stage Association
The committee confirmed that the Eco-Stage 1 (2015 edition) management system has been properly established and therefore approves this certification. We expect the company to develop mechanisms to strengthen governance over the next year, so that these initiatives reach every level of the organization. Regarding the goal of achieving 100% renewable energy, we recommend exploring and adopting an economically viable and effective model, such as storage parity. We also look forward to the company’s internal audit activities, which can contribute to staff development.
Going forward, we will continue to contribute to sustainability and further development, while also advancing efforts toward a circular economy.
About Eco-Stage
Eco-Stage is an environmental management assessment and support system designed to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) build and operate environmental management systems that also deliver business benefits.
This unique Japanese environmental management standard was first developed by the Environmental Management Research Group in Nagoya. With support from many private companies, organizations, and NPOs, as well as academics, the Eco-Stage Association was established in November 2003 as an incorporated association. Since then, the system has been rolled out nationwide through its headquarters and local Eco-Stage study groups.
DX Certification
DX Certification Program
On April 1, 2021, our group was certified as a DX-Certified Business Operator under Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (renewed in April 2025).
Digital transformation strategy
- Update existing services by transitioning from physical to digital while maximizing customer satisfaction, thereby improving corporate value.
- Leverage our scale to become a model case for digital efficiency and accelerate digital transformation across the industry.
- Utilize data obtained from services provided to parents and children, job seekers and staff, and residents and their families to create new services that society needs.
- Use digital technologies to deliver essential services that were previously limited by physical distance or time constraints.
About the DX Certification Program
The DX Certification Program was established under the amended Act on Facilitation of Information Processing in May 2020. Companies that meet the national guidelines and demonstrate exemplary efforts in DX are certified as “DX-Ready” by METI.
Certified companies are considered ready for transformation and are also candidates for further recognition under “DX Brands” (DX-Excellent) and “DX Noteworthy Companies” (DX-Emerging).