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Looking ahead to a decarbonized society in 2050, we will consider how smart mobility will transform society and enrich our daily lives. In this program, discussions will focus not only on the latest technological trends and possibilities for data utilization, but also on harmonization with local culture and human values. We will delve deeply into the role of “mobility” as a key to shaping the future and to realize a sustainable and inclusive society.

1. Smart Mobility Status and Challenges: The latest trends in smart mobility technologies will be introduced and the current challenges and possibilities will be discussed. It will explain how technological advancements such as autonomous vehicles, electric mobility, and mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) are transforming the way we get around. It will also discuss the challenges posed by these technologies (cost, infrastructure development, data security, etc.) and approaches to solving them.
2. Harmonization with local culture and environment: We will consider the integration of smart mobility with the unique local culture and natural environment. While efficiency is required in urban areas, it is important for rural areas to provide mobility options that take advantage of local attractions and characteristics. This session will discuss how mobility design can seamlessly connect urban and rural areas and respect local lifestyles and cultures. Using real-life examples, we will explore how technology can contribute to local sustainability and community revitalization.
3. Building an inclusive and creative mobility society: This is the key to realizing a society where all people can enjoy the freedom of movement equally. This session will discuss designs and services that are accessible to diverse populations, including the elderly, people with disabilities, and children. We will also discuss specific ideas for improving the quality of the mobility experience.

Agenda
1. Introduction (5 minutes)
2. Panel Discussion: Achieving Smart Mobility for a Decarbonized Society (90 minutes)
・Panelist introductions (10 minutes each × 5)
・Talk sessions (10 minutes each × 4 sessions)
3. Q&A Session (20 minutes)
4. Closing Remarks (5 minutes)

【Reflection】
In this programme, ‘Realising a Smart Mobility Society for a Decarbonised Society,’ discussions were held from a multifaceted perspective on the role and potential of mobility in building a decarbonised society with a view to 2050. The theme was ‘Future Communities and Mobility,’ and the discussion explored human-centred mobility using the latest technologies such as autonomous driving, electrification, and the use of urban data.

Speakers included entrepreneurs and experts from Japan and overseas who are at the forefront of EV, ropeway-type transportation systems, smart infrastructure, and mobility design. What was particularly impressive was the perspective of ‘human-centred mobility,’ which emphasises not only efficiency but also harmony with local culture and the natural environment. This made it clear that smart mobility can contribute not only to urban areas but also to the sustainable development of rural areas.

Additionally, through examples from Southeast Asia and Taiwan, approaches to the social implementation of mobility tailored to diverse national and regional contexts were introduced, deepening global-level issue-sharing and mutual understanding. Discussions on the quality and inclusivity of mobility experiences provided important insights for mobility design that supports the lives of diverse people.

This dialogue served as an opportunity to reaffirm the potential of mobility as a ‘co-creation platform’ that supports social inclusion, regional revitalisation, and cultural preservation, rather than merely a means of transportation.



【Post EXPO Initiatives】
Based on the discussions in this programme, the organisers and speakers shared their plans to promote the following initiatives after the Expo, with the aim of realising a sustainable and inclusive society centred on smart mobility.

First, promoting projects for the social implementation of mobility that harmonises with regional culture and the environment. Companies and start-ups that are already engaged in such initiatives will collaborate with local governments and research institutions to conduct demonstration experiments of mobility services and design systems through co-creation with local residents. This is expected to lead to the establishment of sustainable mobility infrastructure rooted in the community.

Second, the development and dissemination of technologies for a decarbonised society. In addition to the introduction of EVs and smart infrastructure, the development of low-environmental-impact mobility systems will be accelerated through the integration of renewable energy and the utilisation of MaaS. Furthermore, with a view to the international expansion of these technologies, efforts are underway to strengthen cooperation with Asian countries.

Thirdly, the promotion of ‘inclusive design’ that allows everyone to enjoy freedom of mobility. Emphasis is being placed on the design of mobility that can be used safely by everyone, including the elderly, people with disabilities, and children, as well as research and development of UX that improves the quality of the mobility experience. Companies, local governments, and civic groups are collaborating to create a universal mobility environment.

Furthermore, as an educational approach for the younger generation who will lead the next generation, workshops and outreach lectures on the themes of mobility and decarbonisation are also being planned. This is expected to enhance young people's understanding of climate change and their awareness of participation, fostering a foundation for co-creating the future society.

These initiatives go beyond mere technological innovation, representing the first step toward the social implementation of a ‘new way of mobility’ that connects people and harmonises with culture and the environment. It is anticipated that these efforts will continue to evolve through ongoing collaboration and practice even after the Expo.

*Part or all of this report was generated by AI.