Interview

Why is the founder of Soup Stock Tokyo now devoting himself to contemporary art? It is the “unsought work” that ultimately enriches both life and business. While working at a major trading company, Masamichi Toyama suddenly held a solo art exhibition at the age of 33. He later transformed that same impulse into a restaurant specializing in soup and brought it into the world. The Chain Museum, founded by Toyama, moves fluidly between digital and physical spaces, bringing a fresh current to the art world.
We asked him about ArtSticker, one of Japan’s largest online art platforms, and its vision of a “transparent market” that transcends existing frameworks, along with insights into living by one’s own purpose in the age of AI.

Recycling has become a prominent topic in the fashion world. However, the current reality is that less than 1% of textiles are recycled into new products. This low figure stems from the difficulties in breaking down fibers and removing solvents and other contaminants. Enter the startup Ambercycle, which is achieving true "clothing recycling" through innovative technology. We spoke with Ambercycle CEO Shay Sethi about how this technology came to be and what future he envisions.

Pink born from ancient bacteria in geysers, blue created by bacteria living in mineral-rich waters... Using microorganisms from extreme environments in nature, UK-based "Colorifix" is revolutionizing the dyeing industry. How was this "life-friendly" dyeing technology, which replaces petrochemical dyes, born and how has it grown? We spoke with co-founders Jim Ajioka and Orr Yarkoni.

Waterproof and breathable membranes used in shells and other products are often made of substances that are harmful and environmentally hazardous. Regulations have begun to address this issue on a global scale. The Swiss-based start-up Dimpora AG has created a breakthrough in this area. How did they develop a membrane that is sustainable and can withstand harsh environments? We interviewed the CEO of Dimpora AG, in which the Goldwin Play Earth Fund has also decided to invest.

THE NORTH FACE, which started in 1966 as a single ski shop, has grown into a globally recognized outdoor brand. The first major transformation in its history came in 1968 when Kenneth Hap Klopp (referred to as Hap hereafter) acquired the brand from Douglas Tompkins for $50,000.
As an investor, how does he view Goldwin's stance and the Goldwin Play Earth Fund, with which he regularly exchanges information? Here, we record Happ's candid thoughts shared during an online interview.

"Solarcore®" is a revolutionary material that uses NASA's cutting-edge "aerogel" technology, also applied in Mars rovers, to create an ideal thin insulation. Goldwin Play Earth Fund has invested in their ambition to transform thermal insulation across various industries worldwide. We spoke with Michael Markesbery, the CEO and co-founder of Solarcore®, to learn more about the qualities and potential of this remarkable material.

What can we do to solve the environmental crisis facing humanity?Synflux, a company funded by the Goldwin Play Earth Fund, aims to conduct innovation in the fashion industry, which is entrenched in outdated paradigms, and reduce its environmental impact by harnessing digital technology. What is “Algorithmic Couture,” its principal service and a system that has won world-class awards? And how can fashion contribute to address environmental issues?

Living in the city means being surrounded by people and buildings, with few opportunities to spend time alone, with family or friends, or to experience nature. Meanwhile, the spread of remote work has led to a growing desire for multi-site lifestyles or to live closer to nature. SANU, a company backed by the Goldwin Play Earth Fund, provides innovative services to make such a lifestyle possible.