The Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology opened its School of Marine Resources and Environment in April 2017. Consisting of the departments of Ocean Sciences and Marine Resources and Energy, the new school aims to utilize a comprehensive and hands-on curriculum, focusing on quality assurance, to impart a comprehensive understanding of ocean science from the atmosphere to the ocean floor. Through these efforts, the school looks to develop ocean specialists who can work internationally in ocean fields, especially in research on the marine environment and organisms, as well as the exploration and use of offshore energy and seabed resources.

It has been 12 years since the Shiretoko Peninsula and its surrounding areas were designated as a World Natural Heritage Site. However, for the coastal fisheries supporting the economy of the local community, unexpected events have been occurring, such as the incredibly poor catch of Atka mackerel (Pleurogrammus azonus) and Japanese flying squid (Todarodes pacificus). There is also the problem of the "irreversible spatiotemporal trend" regarding the ever-increasing rise in ocean temperatures accompanying global warming. In order to achieve coexistence between ecosystem conservation in the seas around Shiretoko and sustainable coastal fisheries, there is now a need for assessment and adaptation, using a "glocal" point of view that includes the ecologically and/or biologically significant areas (EBSAs) around Shiretoko, the East China Sea, and the "corridors" that connect them.

As crew members on the Shirase, which is responsible for the transport of the Antarctic Expeditionary Teams, we were part of the 57th and 58th expedition teams, becoming the first female self-defense petty officer to take part in Antarctic observation efforts. Aboard the Shirase, we supported its navigation through icebreakers, and also worked at Showa Station, which helped us to understand just how important teamwork is when working in harsh environments.Crewmembers of various specialties must act as one in order to operate military vessels. In this respect, we hope to contribute to increased opportunities for future female self-defense petty officer.