Summary
The Jomon people of northern Japan, spanning 10,000 years, demonstrated an advanced circular economy that predates modern sustainable practices. Contrary to previous assumptions, their lack of organized agriculture was not a sign of pre-civilization but rather a sophisticated system that balanced resource gathering and consumption without creating social class divisions. They lived cooperatively, avoiding inter-tribal conflicts and respecting nature by taking only what was necessary for survival, adapting to seasonal changes. This system aligns with the principles of modern Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), showcasing their wisdom in sustainable living. The study re-examines their culture, highlighting the use of storage warehouses as evidence of planned food management, challenging traditional narratives about their subsistence strategies.
Citation
Yamaoka, Y. (2023). Circular Economy for Sustainable Communities and Lifestyles: The Wisdom of the Jomon People across 10,000 Years of Time and Space. Economit Journal: Scientific Journal of Accountancy, Management and Finance, 3(1), 56–66. https://doi.org/10.33258/economit.v3i1.871