#Japan #Tokyo #Sakana-kun #Noto Peninsula #Yoro Takemitsu

Uncovering Noto's Nature Secrets: A Special Event

On August 13, 2026, an exciting event will take place at the United Nations University headquarters in Tokyo, focusing on the ecological restoration efforts in the Noto Peninsula, which suffered significant damage from an earthquake and heavy rainfall in 2024. Titled "Discovering the Secrets of Noto's Nature," this event will feature esteemed speakers, including Sakana-kun, a visiting researcher at UNU-IAS, and Yoro Takemitsu, a distinguished professor emeritus at the University of Tokyo.

The event, running from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM JST, aims to highlight the natural environment and wildlife of the Noto Peninsula, particularly in the wake of natural disasters. It will delve into how the rich forests, rivers, and seas continue to support diverse life forms, even when facing adversities.

Program Overview

Location:
United Nations University, U Thant International Conference Hall, Tokyo, Japan

Language:
The event will be conducted in Japanese.

The program will be divided into two parts:

Part 1: Introduction to Noto's Ecosystem

In the first segment, participants will learn about the connections between Noto's forests, rivers, and seas. They will explore the region's remarkable biodiversity, including species like the Kawayatsume, a unique fish indigenous to the area.

• - Opening Remarks: Welcome attendees and summarize the event's objectives.
• - Mini Presentations:

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- Akiko Koyama, Researcher at UNU-IAS, will shed light on local biodiversity and its significance.
- Yosuke Arakawa from the Noto Marine Interaction Center will provide insights into marine life and conservation efforts.

• - Q&A Session with Attendees: An interactive discussion allows attendees to engage with the presenters and inquire about specific topics related to Noto's ecology.

Part 2: Dialogue on Adaptation of Wildlife

The second segment will feature a dialog between Sakana-kun and Yoro Takemitsu on the theme "What happened to the insects and fish after the earthquake?" This engaging conversation will assess how local wildlife has adapted and survived in the transformed natural environment due to the disasters. The discussion will also reflect on the future of the Noto Peninsula's rich ecosystem as it heals.

• - Dialogue between:

- Yoro Takemitsu, Professor Emeritus, University of Tokyo
- Sakana-kun, Visiting Researcher, UNU-IAS

• - Q&A with Attendees: Another chance for attendees to pose questions and contribute to the dialogue.

This event is organized by the UN University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS) and is supported by the SD BlueEarth "Sakana-kun Research Team 2026" and Anan International Cooperation.

Contact Information for Media Inquiries

Researchers in media who wish to cover this significant event or need comments on biodiversity, disaster recovery, and environmental education regarding the Noto Peninsula can reach out to:

• - Akiko Koyama, UNU-IAS Researcher
• - For English inquiries: Anne Lecroq, Media & Engagement Associate ([email protected])
• - For Japanese inquiries: Ayako Tomita, Program Coordinator ([email protected])

Join us to discover how nature persists and flourishes in Noto, even after calamity strikes. Together, let's celebrate and learn from the resilience of our ecosystems.