At the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, a symposium titled “Fukuoka One Health Symposium – to pass a healthy Earth onto Future generations” was held at the EXPO Hall “ShiningHat.”

In the morning session, the event opened with a keynote lecture by Dr. Fumihiko Yokota from Associate Professor, Kyushu University, Institute for Asian and Oceanian Studies, followed by Astronaut, Scientist Dr. Mamoru Mohri. Based on scientific insights and lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, Mohri discussed the links between climate change and zoonotic disease risks in an engaging and accessible way.

The afternoon session featured a variety of guests under different themes.

First, the talk show on “Protect the Ocean” welcomed actor and TV personality Mr. Takatoshi Kaneko, Fukuoka One Health Master Ms. Saya Tanaka, Fukuoka Governor Seitaro Hattori, and news anchor Ms. Rie Sasaki. They discussed the importance of marine environmental conservation and practical actions individuals can take in their daily lives.

Next, the panel discussion on “Protect the Forests” featured TV personality Mr. Takeshi Tsuruno, Dr. Kimiko Okabe (Research Scientist, Center for Biodiversity and Climate Change, Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute, Forest Research and Management Organization), Mr. Kota Komori (President of the Certified NPO sansonjuku in Kurogi Town, Yame City), and Dr. Isao Kurauchi, President of the FAVA One Health Fukuoka Office and President-Elect of the World Veterinary Association, President of the Japan Veterinary Medical Association. The discussion highlighted how deforestation shortens the distance between humans and wild animals, increasing the risk of infectious diseases, and emphasized the importance of proper forest management.

The panel also underscored the significance of the nutrient cycle that connects forests, rivers, and oceans, introducing large-scale coastal cleanup initiatives and nature-based experiential programs.