Latest Smart Disaster Prevention Technologies for Community Safety

In an age where natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods are becoming increasingly severe, it is crucial for local communities in Japan to enhance their preparedness. The Japan Management Association (JMA) is hosting a free online seminar titled "Research Introduction on Wide-Area and Instantaneous Disaster Information Sharing", in collaboration with the National Research Institute for Disaster Science and Technology (NIED), scheduled for July 3, 2025, from 14:00 to 15:00.

This seminar will provide clear insights into the latest technologies for smart disaster prevention. Participants will learn how local governments can access vital information at the right time during disaster events. The focus will be on "information collaboration," which is of high demand among local governments, particularly as they leverage advanced technologies like satellites and IoT to develop new information systems that enable essential decision-making processes during emergencies.

Seminar Highlights

Keynote Speech

Overview of Challenges in Domestic Disaster Networks
Speaker: Hitoshi Taguchi, R&D Director, NIED
As the R&D Director of NIED, Taguchi will present an overview of the pressing challenges faced by disaster networks in Japan, dissecting the gaps and opportunities for improvement.

Panel of Experts

1. Utilization of Satellite Data for Large-Scale Disaster Understanding
Speaker: Masahiko Nagai, A-1 Leader, Center for Applied Satellite Remote Sensing, Yamaguchi University
Nagai will showcase how satellite data can aid in comprehensively understanding disasters as they unfold.

2. Real-Time Information Gathering through IoT Sensor Collaboration
Speaker: Ryuichi Imai, A-2 Leader, Professor, Department of Urban Environment Design Engineering, Hosei University
Imai will discuss the role of IoT sensors in collecting real-time data, enabling communities to respond more effectively to disasters.

3. Initiatives by I-Resilience Inc.
Speaker: Makoto Kobayashi, Social Implementation Officer, President of I-Resilience Inc.
Kobayashi will elaborate on the innovative strategies employed by his company to foster resilience within communities.

Facilitator

Shingo Toride, Social Implementation Officer, NIED
Toride will guide the discussions and wrap up the expert insights shared during the event.

Registration Details

Participants interested in the seminar must register in advance. The event will be held online via Zoom and is free of charge. It's important to note that user registration is required for viewing.
For more details and to register, please visit: JMA Seminar Registration

About the 2025 Municipal Comprehensive Fair

Set to take place from July 16 to July 18, 2025, at Tokyo Big Sight Hall 3 & 4, the 29th edition of the municipal comprehensive fair will emphasize innovation in municipal management and creating an attractive community where residents can genuinely feel enriched. The fair will include exhibitions and programs focusing on disaster prevention, and the involvement of disaster science experts will enrich the attendees' experience.

Special Seminar on Disaster DX

Additionally, a special seminar on disaster DX will be hosted, focusing on the latest trends in disaster information networking, primarily using the SOBO-WEB platform.

Conclusion

As Japan continues to face severe natural disasters, the need for improved disaster prevention strategies becomes paramount. The synergy between technology and community preparedness can significantly enhance the nation's resilience against natural calamities. We encourage participation in this crucial seminar to learn and engage with the forefront of disaster prevention technology.