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Okayama University’s Initiative for Carbon Neutrality

On March 31, 2025, Okayama University, a national university located in Okayama City, organized a significant study session titled "Okayama University Carbon Neutrality Base Project Study Session" at the Okayama Convention Center. This event drew around 80 participants, including local government officials, corporate representatives, and academic professionals, fostering an engaging and dynamic discussion focused on advancing carbon neutrality initiatives.

The study session was part of Okayama University's broader initiative to establish a carbon-neutral base, seeking to leverage the unique characteristics of the region while collaborating with surrounding areas to pin down concrete solutions for achieving a carbon-neutral society (CN).

Opening Remarks

Professor Tsutomu Ono from the Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science inaugurated the session, emphasizing the accelerated efforts towards carbon neutrality across industries, academia, and local communities. He highlighted the potential of Okayama and the Setouchi region, noting its rich forest and marine resources combined with substantial chemical complexes, which present an ideal platform for developing a carbon cycling model at the local level.

Keynote Speeches

The session continued with a presentation by Professor Shigeo Satokawa from Seikei University, who discussed "Manufacturing Methods and Recent Trends of Carbon-Neutral Synthetic Fuels.” He shed light on the necessity of synthetic fuels, production processes, and business plans both domestically and internationally. Satokawa pointed out the challenges around the cost of hydrogen production using renewable energy in Japan, stressing the importance of establishing local electricity grid infrastructures to support these initiatives.

Following this, Assistant Professor Wataru Sano from the Graduate School of Education took the stage to speak on "Blue Carbon – The Principles of Carbon Fixation Using Seagrasses.” In his talk, he introduced the concept of blue carbon — referring to carbon captured by marine resources such as seagrasses — and recent research examples that showcase its potential. Given Japan's extensive coastline, the opportunities for blue carbon initiatives are significant; however, he acknowledged that research and development in this area are still in their infancy.

Open Discussion

The event culminated in a comprehensive discussion themed around the "Carbon Cycling Model in Okayama and the Setouchi Region." Participants and speakers exchanged ideas and opinions, exploring the feasibility of utilizing both green carbon (from forest resources) and blue carbon in creating sustainable carbon cycles for the locality.

Looking Ahead

Okayama University is committed to advancing the creation of sustainable energy and material cycles tailored to regional characteristics, aiming for local revitalization through the promotion of carbon neutrality. Interested parties can look forward to the continued efforts of Okayama University as a unique and essential research institution in the community.

As we strive for a sustainable future, Okayama University aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and has been recognized with a special award at the inaugural Japan SDGs Awards. The institution is actively working on developing initiatives that blend research, community engagement, and innovation to contribute to both local and global challenges. The university's commitment to supporting sustainable development and carbon-neutral practices reflects its ambition to play a pivotal role in fostering an environment that encourages collaboration and innovation.

For more information on Okayama University’s ongoing research and initiatives, please visit their official websites or learn more about their partnerships in innovation and sustainability.