SDGs International Forum

This session focuses on climate change and biodiversity, presenting the latest knowledge and practical case studies from Japan and overseas. It aims to deepen understanding of initiatives that generate synergies, connect global trends with local practices, and highlight collaborative approaches that bridge science, policy and communities.

The session will feature Masato Nobutoki, Invited Professor at the Office for Promoting SDGs, Kobe University, who will introduce advanced approaches linking climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation and local economic revitalisation, with a particular focus on blue carbon. Drawing on his experience as Chair of Hyogo Prefecture's Blue Carbon Credit Study Group on Nori Aquaculture, he will demonstrate how the restoration of seaweed beds and tidal flats can contribute to the revitalisation of local fisheries and regional decarbonisation.

In addition, Aidy Mohamed Shawal Bin M. Muslim, Professor and Head of Remote Sensing and Marine Informatics at the Institute of Oceanography and Environment (INOS), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), will present the latest developments in Eco-DRR (ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction) utilising coastal ecosystems such as mangroves and coral reefs. Rather than relying solely on disaster prevention infrastructure, Eco-DRR harnesses the power of nature to simultaneously promote ecosystem conservation and strengthen community resilience. His presentation will showcase international efforts to advance coastal risk reduction science and practice by integrating climate, ecosystems and communities in tropical regions.

By bringing together domestic and international examples of blue carbon and Eco-DRR, this session will illustrate the synergies that emerge at the intersection of climate and biodiversity actions. It will also highlight pathways for collaboration that connect global trends with local practices while strengthening linkages among science, policy and communities.