The officers of the Oceanographic Society of Japan have decided to establish a working group to systematize the initiatives of experts in the field of ocean science. How serious is the ocean being contaminated by radioactive elements? How is the contamination spreading? To what degree is it affecting the marine environment and fisheries resources? While we will of course work to provide and make public any new information on these questions, we also ought to organize, assess and disseminate existing information.

Many of Japan's major fisheries hubs are to be found in the areas damaged by the recent disaster. At that time, many precious lives were lost, with many victims being involved in the fishing industry. Also, many of the local assets indispensable to the industry were swept away, including fishing boats and aquaculture facilities, fishing ports, market facilities, processing plants, and shipyards. All those associated with the fishing industry, with JF at their core, are doing their utmost to bring the industry back to life.

Islands and the sea represent Japanese life in microcosm. Japan's culture, traditions, society, and personal ties were born from islands and the sea, and its restoration will begin with them. What's needed to accomplish this are a balanced transportation policy and autonomous initiatives by islands. Dual residences in cities and in the country will save Japan.