Message from the Director

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Message from the Director

Director of the Organization for Marine Science and Technology

Kiyoshi Soyano

Engaging in research and development for the utilization of potential oceanic resources and energy is an extremely appealing topic to Nagasaki, which is surrounded by the ocean. In July 2014, the Goto Islands of Nagasaki Prefecture was selected as the “Offshore Renewable Energy Test Site” by the national government, hence the opportunity for the research and development and the creation of new industries in related fields is rapidly increasing. The use of offshore energy to promote commercial activity in island areas is indeed a model of a very Nagasaki-like way of regional revitalization. At the same time, protecting the marine environment and using marine bioresources in a sustainable way forms the basis for the continued existence of human-kind.

In April 2016, the Organization for Marine Science and Technology (OMST) was established to address these issues through research, development and education. In fact, an agreement has already been signed in March 2016 by Nagasaki Prefecture, Nagasaki Marine Industry Cluster Promotion Association, Nagasaki Institute of Applied Science, and Nagasaki University to strengthen collaboration between the government, academia, and industry. In this way, a base to promote the creation of marine industry is being prepared. I hope that as a comprehensive research institution, OMST will play a central role in collaboration and education among national and international research organizations, industries, and local communities.

A distinctive feature of OMST is a framework consisting of scientists in engineering and those in fisheries science and oceanography, which are working comprehensively and cooperatively toward the development and utilization of offshore energy and the conservation of fisheries resources. The research that OMST engaged in is a pioneering model for integrating engineering, fisheries and environmental sciences.

Advancing the development of offshore energy, in conjunction with the advancement of scientific knowledge in marine environment conservation and marine bioresource cultivation, is the most important issue if we are to effectively and sustainably use natural resources and energy while cherishing the nature of our rich oceans. Your future support and cooperation is greatly appreciated.