Sustainable City Summit 5: Innovative Urban Landscapes and the New Economy

Sustainable City Summit 5: Unveiling New Urban Landscapes through a Divergent Economy

The fifth edition of the Sustainable City Summit is set to take place on September 6, 2025, at City Lab Tokyo, located in the heart of Tokyo's Chuo Ward. Titled "Innovative Urban Landscapes Unveiled by a Divergent Economy," this summit continues the tradition of investigating the intersection of sustainable business practices and urban development.

City Lab Tokyo, powered by Tokyo Tatemono Co., Ltd. and managed by Urbanists, a non-profit organization, strives to provide a platform for those passionate about forming sustainable cities. This year's summit focuses on examining the trends of a new economic landscape—an economy that is not linear, but circular and regenerative. This theme prompts discussions about how such economic structures can inspire practical solutions in urban development and enhance the sustainability of our living environments.

Objectives of the Summit

The aim of the Sustainable City Summit 5 is to dive into the emerging economic paradigms that challenge conventional approaches to urban planning and business. At the opening session, prominent speakers will introduce the concepts of divergent and circular economies. These frameworks will help us understand the shifts needed in both personal and professional contexts to build more sustainable urban futures.

The program features a series of discussions led by experts from diverse sectors, illustrating how theories of Circular Economy, Regenerative Practices, Rural Business Models, and Revitalization Strategies can be practically implemented in city planning. Participants will engage in generating actionable insights to evolve urban spaces collaboratively.

Event Details

- Date: September 6, 2025
- Time: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Format: Hybrid (In-person at City Lab Tokyo and online)
- Participation Fee: ¥2000 for entry; ¥3000 for entry plus networking session
- Special Gifts: Attendees at the venue will receive limited edition novelty items!

The event features contributions from various stakeholders, including experts from Ito Shokai Co., Ltd. and the non-profit Japan Association of City Planners. Attendees can look forward to dynamic discussions, networking opportunities, and a collaborative environment focused on urban sustainability.

Program Structure

Opening Session: 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM

Topic: "Beyond Linear Limitations: The New Movements in Economy"

- Speaker: Junji Yoshie (Tokyo University)
- Speaker: Mari Yoshitaka (Virtue Design)
- Speaker: Naoto Nakajima (Urbanists)

Themed Talk Sessions: 2:45 PM – 5:30 PM

- Session A-1 (Circular Economy): Designing Circular Business and Urban Development

- Moderator: Shingo Kajita (Comvey)

- Session A-2 (Regenerative): Rewilding Tokyo: Human-Nature Nexus

- Moderator: Hirotoshi Odagiri (Tohoku University)

- Session B-1 (Revitalization): New Economic Opportunities and Urban Revitalization

- Moderator: Yudai Jo (Yomiuri Advertising Agency)

- Session B-2 (Rural Business Models): The Future of Regional Business

- Moderator: Mako Onodera (Collaborative Company)

Closing Session: 5:45 PM – 7:00 PM

Join the coordinators for a reflective dialogue about the new urban landscape and the collective outcomes from the sessions.

Who Should Attend?

This summit welcomes all individuals interested in enhancing urban sustainability through innovative business practices and urban planning. Whether you are from the administrative sector, an entrepreneur, or simply someone passionate about sustainable urban living, your insights and participation are invaluable.

Connect with Us:
Stay updated on the latest information through our special website, as well as our Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter accounts.

As the initiative progresses, we aspire to create a community that fosters collaboration across various sectors, paving the way towards sustainable urban futures.