Key Facts
• A pilot project to prevent marine debris started in Hiroshima, Japan, July 2025.
• The project is part of “Setouchi Oceans X,” led by the Nippon Foundation and four coastal prefectures.
• Target regions include Okayama, Kagawa, Hiroshima, and Ehime.
• The issue: floats used in oyster farming often degrade and become marine debris.
• Measures include reinforced covers to improve float durability and prevent degradation.
• IC tags will be attached to floats for better tracking and management.
• 1,000 floats will be installed in collaboration with Hiroshima oyster farmers.
• The project aims to expand solutions globally and domestically.
• Nippon Foundation executive Mitsuyuki Umino emphasized the global potential of Hiroshima’s float management strategies.
Summary
A new pilot project in Hiroshima, Japan, aims to address the growing issue of marine debris caused by degraded floats used in oyster farming. Spearheaded by the Nippon Foundation and four coastal prefectures-Okayama, Kagawa, Hiroshima, and Ehime-the initiative is part of the “Setouchi Oceans X” project. The experiment involves installing 1,000 reinforced floats with improved durability and IC tags for better tracking. This effort seeks to prevent float degradation and subsequent pollution. Nippon Foundation executive Mitsuyuki Umino expressed hopes that Hiroshima’s solutions could be applied globally and across Japan. The project represents a significant step toward sustainable aquaculture practices.
