In Focus

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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.

27/08/2020

How rice husks could help the world

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.

11 min
20/08/2020

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.

15 min
13/08/2020

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.

12 min
06/08/2020

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.

13 min
30/07/2020

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.

14 min
14/01/2020

Taking strides to empower women

We head to Nagai City and Dar es Salaam to find out how Japan is encouraging equality in sport through Ladies First, which helps female Tanzanian athletes achieve their potential.

19 min
23/11/2019

Talking to the world

We visit Tokyo to find out how Japan is driving innovation for inclusive societies. We meet the minds behind two technologies, ‘LiveTalk’ and ‘Nin_Nin’, which are helping people become better connected, whether it's by creating conversation between those who speak different languages or giving disabled people the independence to navigate cities.
21/11/2019

In Focus

Introducing our brand-new programme exploring Japan’s role in driving innovation and improving lives worldwide, through technology, sport and cultural exchange. We meet inventors, athletes and communities looking forward to a more inclusive future.

1 min

8 Episodes

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.

Creator

Monocle
Years Active

2K
Episodes

8
Rating

Clean
Show Website

In Focus

In Focus

Episodes

How rice husks could help the world

The friendly face of robotics

Navigating our oceans’ plastics crisis

Buckling down to create a sustainable future

Re-energising local ecology and economy

Taking strides to empower women

Talking to the world

In Focus

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