Toshi originally trained as a forester at Hokkaido University and went on to classify tropical timber in Sabah, East Malaysia. He later branched out after further studies at the University of California at Berkeley. Implementing forestry projects overseas is still part of his work as a consultant for development aid.

He will talk about identifying trees and help us do the same with a broad sample of Japanese wood specimens, as well as wood samples, tree bark, and photos from Borneo. Toshi will also answer questions and discuss issues such as the environmental impact of wildfires and of cutting forests for plantations.