As the 2025 Osaka Expo approaches, its theme of "Designing Future Society for Our Lives" is set to spotlight sustainability and innovation. This ambitious event, designed by Professor Miyata Hiroaki from Keio University's Faculty of Medicine, aims to foster a dialogue on co-creating better futures through individual innovation and sustainable practices.
The Expo's centerpiece is a striking open-air structure that lacks both roof and walls, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a harmonious experience with nature. Located in a tranquil area known as the "Gable of Knowledge" on Yumeshima Island, this pavilion offers a serene escape from the bustling exhibition environment, encouraging visitors to reflect on their relationship with the environment.
Designed to promote sustainable development, the Expo emphasizes three core sub-themes: "Saving Lives," "Empowering Lives," and "Connecting Lives." Each of these themes is interwoven into the visitor experience, inviting engagement through practical activities that highlight the importance of sustainability.
Visitors will have the opportunity to participate in interactive experiences that encourage them to rethink their environmental impact. For instance, one activity invites guests to collaboratively create a "rainbow" using various visual and interactive techniques, symbolizing human cooperation in creating beauty and harmony with nature.
Despite the Expo's focus on sustainability, a recent survey conducted by Ipsos has revealed a concerning sentiment regarding Japan's proactive stance on climate change. The survey, which included responses from over 23,000 people across 32 countries, found that Japan had the lowest percentage of respondents who believe they or their government need to act urgently on climate issues.
In Japan, only 40% of participants agreed that individuals should take action to combat climate change, significantly lower than the 64% average across all surveyed countries. Moreover, just 42% of Japanese respondents felt that their government would fail to protect its citizens if climate issues were not addressed promptly.
Interestingly, while the survey indicated a lack of urgency regarding climate action, it also showed that 81% of Japanese participants expressed concern about the effects of climate change on their country, which is seven points higher than the global average.
This juxtaposition of concern and inaction raises questions about the public's perception of climate change and the government's role in addressing it. As the Expo aims to inspire a collective vision for a sustainable future, it must also confront the reality that many in Japan do not feel a pressing need to act.
Professor Miyata's pavilion at the Expo embodies this challenge. By utilizing sustainable materials and integrating natural elements like plants, the pavilion seeks to create a calming environment that fosters contemplation and creativity. Traditional Japanese technologies enhance the sensory experience, making it a destination for innovation and reflection.
The Expo's design and programming aim to challenge visitors to consider their relationships with each other and the planet. Through engaging activities, attendees will explore values that matter to them and others, fostering empathy and mutual understanding.
As the event draws closer, it remains to be seen how effectively the Expo can engage the public on these pressing issues. The challenge is not only to showcase innovative solutions but also to inspire a shift in mindset among attendees regarding climate action.
In the context of rising global concerns about climate change, the Osaka Expo serves as a critical platform for dialogue and action. It is an opportunity for Japan to demonstrate leadership in sustainable development and to address the disconnect between public concern and perceived urgency.
As Japan prepares for the Expo, the focus on sustainability and innovation could position the country as a leader in addressing climate change. However, it will require a concerted effort to align public sentiment with actionable goals.
Ultimately, the success of the Expo will depend on its ability to resonate with visitors and inspire them to take meaningful action towards a sustainable future. The pavilion designed by Professor Miyata is just one example of how creativity and innovation can be harnessed to tackle the challenges of our time.
