My name is Yutaka HOSOMI. It is my great honor to introduce myself as the newly appointed Secretary-General of the Japan Water Forum.
Approximately 30 years ago, I had the opportunity to participate in international conferences held in Montreal and Stockholm, where experts from industry, academia, government, and civil society convened to discuss water-related issues. At that time, Japan lacked a platform for cross-sectoral discussions on water, and I strongly felt the necessity of engaging in global dialogues on this critical subject.
Upon returning to Japan, I devoted my efforts to the establishment of the Japan Water Prize, and contributed to the preparatory work for the 3rd World Water Forum. Following the founding of the Japan Water Forum, I remained engaged as an individual member. Through numerous discussions and initiatives concerning water, Japan ultimately enacted the Basic Law on the Water Cycle in 2014.
Today, we are confronted with new challenges, namely the aging of water infrastructure and the intensification of climate change—both of which significantly impact the water cycle.
Firstly, in addressing the aging of water infrastructure, it is imperative to adopt the latest scientific and technological advancements while promoting cross-sectoral collaboration in maintenance and renewal efforts. This approach will contribute to enhancing the sustainability of the water cycle.
Secondly, in response to the increasing volatility of the water cycle, we must take proactive measures to ensure that water infrastructure is capable of minimizing the damage caused by extreme events such as floods, storm surges, and droughts, while simultaneously maximizing the benefits of the water cycle. Furthermore, it is crucial to actively preserve and restore environments shaped by the water cycle. In addition, these challenges will necessitate comprehensive measures that extend beyond water infrastructure, including land use planning, housing policies, urban development, industrial transformation, and economic activities.
It is essential that stakeholders across industry, academia, government, and civil society recognize the profound interconnection between the water cycle and our daily lives, society, and the environment. By fostering in-depth discussions and taking decisive action on water-related issues, we can contribute to mitigating and preventing emerging societal challenges.
The Japan Water Forum is committed to serving as a platform for such discussions, policy proposals, and concrete actions. The deadline for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is set for 2030, and the dialogues and initiatives we undertake today will undoubtedly shape the direction of the next global agenda.
We sincerely appreciate your continued support and cooperation in advancing the mission and activities of the Japan Water Forum.
Yutaka HOSOMI
Secretary General
Japan Water Forum
