We look at a new technology called Triporous – a porous carbon material made from rice husks – and discuss the various global issues it could help to solve. These range from the disposal of biomass waste to purifying water in developing countries.
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11:07
The friendly face of robotics
Robots are well established in industrial settings but could they ever successfully work alongside humans in the service industry? We find out how they are being adapted in Japan for use across all sectors, from coffee shops to disaster relief.
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15:01
Navigating our oceans’ plastics crisis
As the issue of plastic pollution in the seas climbs the agenda, we meet Dr Sanae Chiba from the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology to find out about the country’s efforts to clean up its oceans, and how Japan’s research into microplastics could help other nations around the world.
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12:14
Buckling down to create a sustainable future
We visit the city of Kiryu to find innovative new models for sustainable fashion businesses, which are using a combination of locally sourced materials and labour, technology and traditional techniques. We also discover how, when it comes to eco-friendly clothing manufacturing, Japan’s fashion history continues to inspire contemporary designers.
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13:19
Re-energising local ecology and economy
We visit Toyooka City, where organic farming has boosted biodiversity and enticed back its emblematic bird – and the return of the oriental stork has attracted more visitors. We also visit Yonago City to learn how generating energy locally is as good for the economy as it is for the environment.
Discover the extraordinary role that Japan plays in driving innovation and improving lives in cities and societies around the world. Join us as we meet the inventors and inspirational figures at the heart of these stories of progress in technology, sustainability, inclusivity and establishing global benchmarks.
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