The Remote Islands Promotion Law and other related laws have promoted the development of Japan's remote islands, focusing on social capital development. In recent years, however, emphasis has been placed on soft support measures, and the 8th Remote Islands Promotion Plan starting in FY2023 clarifies various considerations to address today's issues. In order for remote islands to fulfill diverse and important roles, such as preservation of territory and the exclusive economic zone, sustainable development is required, such as through improving the unfavorable conditions of the living environment and expanding employment opportunities.

Remote island medical care in Japan varies depending on the size of the population and location of the remote islands. As the population declines and ages rapidly and local community functions decline, efforts are underway to build an efficient healthcare delivery system by introducing new technologies such as telemedicine and drone logistics, while at the same time maintaining existing healthcare services. Progress must be made in pursuit of a balance between convenience and safety, while keeping in mind overall health care over a wide area.

The “Kumejima Model” is based on the composite utilization of deep ocean water centered on ocean thermal energy conversion, for which empirical research was successfully conducted in 2013 on Kumejima, Okinawa Prefecture. This model has been attracting attention in the international community, including at the COP28 held in 2023. This paper provides an overview of the current situation and outlook for ocean thermal energy conversion and the utilization of deep ocean water.