This event will explore the nature and wildlife of the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, which suffered significant damage due to earthquakes and heavy rainfall in 2024. Featuring popular Japanese science communicators, FISH BOY - Sakana-kun, who was recently appointed as a UNU-IAS Visiting Research Fellow, and Dr. Takashi Yoro, it will discuss how the region remains home to rich forests, rivers, and seas, where a wide variety of living creatures continue to thrive despite recent natural disasters.
Date and Time
13 August 2026, 13:00-15:00, Tokyo
Address
UNU Building, U Thant International Conference Hall
Language
Japanese
Programme
Moderator: Yoko Tomita (Programme Coordinator, UNU-IAS OUIK)
PART 1
Opening Remarks
Short Presentations
- Sayako Koyama (Research Associate, UNU-IAS OUIK)
- Hiroaki Arakawa (Noto Marine Center)
Q&A
PART 2
Discussion
- Takeshi Yoro (Professor Emeritus, University of Tokyo)
- FISH BOY - Sakana-kun (Visiting Research Fellow, UNU-IAS)
Q&A
Organizers
This event is organized by UNU-IAS Operating Unit Ishikawa/Kanazawa (UNU-IAS OUIK) with support from SD BlueEarth Sakana-kun Tankyutai 2026 and in cooperation with ANAN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Interviews
UNU-IAS expert Sayako Koyama is available to provide information and comments on the following topics related to the Noto Peninsula:
• Biodiversity
• Disaster recovery
• Environmental education
Media interested in interviewing FISH BOY - Sakana-kun about his recent appointment as UNU-IAS Visiting Research Fellow can also reach out to the media contacts below.
Media Contacts
Journalists who wish to cover the event on 13 August and/or conduct interviews can email the following media contacts.
For media inquiries in English:
Anne Lecroq, Media & Engagement Associate (anne.lecroq@unu.edu)
For media inquiries in Japanese:
Yoko Tomita, Programme Coordinator (tomita@unu.edu)
