On 13 August 2026, UNU-IAS organized an event exploring the biodiversity of Noto Peninsula in Japan and the impact of the 2024 Noto Earthquake and heavy rains on the local ecosystems. It featured popular Japanese science communicators Takashi Yoro (Professor Emeritus, University of Tokyo) and FISH BOY – Sakana-kun, who was recently appointed as a UNU-IAS Visiting Research Fellow.
Highlighting the region's rich biodiversity and cultural traditions, Sayako Koyama (Research Associate, UNU-IAS OUIK) introduced Noto Peninsula's satoyama and satoumi — traditional Japanese rural landscapes where people and nature live in harmony. Hiroaki Arakawa (Noto Marine Center) discussed the ecology of the Arctic lamprey (Lethenteron camtschaticum) and how its aquatic habitat has changed significantly in the aftermath of the disasters. He stressed the importance of dialogue with a diverse range of stakeholders to restore and protect Noto’s ecosystems.
FISH BOY – Sakana-kun and Dr. Yoro discussed how wildlife has responded to changes in the natural environment following the recent disasters and reflected on what the future might hold for Noto’s ecosystems. Dr. Yoro explained the interconnectedness of forests, rivers and the sea, noting that marine creatures such as shrimp belong to the same group of arthropods as insects. Sakana-kun pointed out that human-managed satoyama landscapes help sustain a rich diversity of wildlife, mushrooms and edible wild plants. Highlighting the importance of disaster preparedness, Dr. Yoro underlined that the resolve to face whatever may happen is essential. Sakana-kun stressed that visiting disaster-affected areas and connecting with local communities can provide meaningful support and encouragement to those impacted by disasters.
Closing the session, Yoko Tomita (Programme Coordinator, UNU-IAS OUIK) remarked that firsthand experiences and careful observation of the natural world can foster new insights and discoveries that might otherwise go unnoticed.
The event was organized by UNU-IAS Operating Unit Ishikawa/Kanazawa (UNU-IAS OUIK) with support from SD BlueEarth Sakana-kun Tankyutai 2026 and ANAN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
