Announcement

The academic forum was held on 9 December 2025 at the auditorium of the Science Council of Japan (SCJ) in Tokyo, with both in-person and online participation. It was organized by the SCJ and co-organized by the National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Resilience (NIED).

The main theme of the forum was the forthcoming SCJ Recommendation entitled “Science, Technology and Innovation to Strengthen Disaster Resilience in Megacities Facing Catastrophic Disaster Risks.” The forum provided an opportunity to share views and discuss how science and technology can contribute to disaster risk reduction and resilience-building in megacities facing complex and compound risks.

The morning sessions focused on lessons learned from recent disasters, including the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake, with discussions on cascading impacts and issues related to disaster risk governance.

In the afternoon, discussions focused on the Recommendation. Prof. Kaoru Takara, President of NIED, addressed the importance of linking scientific research with policy formulation and practical implementation to strengthen disaster resilience in megacities. He then introduced the 14 recommendations that constitute the Recommendation, outlining their key objectives and focus areas.

1. Implement land use management based on disaster risk 　　　　　　
2. Accounting for uncertainties of future changes and disaster risks
3. Minimize health impacts
4. Prevent indirect disaster-related deaths
5. Maintain health, medical, and welfare systems
6. Develop standards for disaster risk assessment
7. Promote DRR investment
8. Utilize latest technologies and knowledge in disaster information
9. Lead in developing AI technologies effective for DRR
10. Promote international dissemination, communication, and sharing of information
11. Promote interdisciplinary education to understand comprehensive nature of disasters
12. Build societal systems that incentivize disaster education
13. Establish a STI platform for DRR
14. Provide strategic recommendations that address DRR challenges grounded in societal needs

The program also included lectures by experts involved in drafting the Recommendation. Dr. Shohei Matsuura of NIED explained the importance of establishing a Science–Technology–Innovation (STI) platform for disaster risk reduction in megacities, to better connect scientists, policymakers, communities, and the private sector.

A panel discussion followed on how the Recommendation can be communicated and applied at national and local levels. Panelists from diverse regions, disciplines, and generations shared their experiences and insights, illustrating the value of cross-sectoral and cross-regional dialogue in translating the Recommendation into practice.

At the conclusion of the forum, Prof. Takara presented the Chair’s Statement and emphasized that the forum’s outcomes will support the dissemination and implementation of the SCJ Recommendation.