Building Resilient Infrastructure | IGF 2023 Day 0 Event #203

Knowledge Graph of Debate

Session report

Seth Ayers

The escalating threat of climate change is disproportionately impacting developing nations, with estimates suggesting that extreme weather events could push as many as 130 million individuals into severe poverty. This downturn in living standards is leading to mass migration, altering economic and social dynamics in numerous countries.

On a brighter note, the advantages of resilient infrastructure, particularly in these developing nations, have been greatly emphasised. Every dollar invested in enhancing the resilience of infrastructure projects is believed to generate a fourfold return. This figure highlights the immense potential that resilient infrastructure offers for social and economic development, which could help counteract the adverse effects of climate change, decrease the level of poverty and stem migration.

Digital technologies represent another vital tool in combatting climate change. About half of the developing nations view digital technologies as an integral driver for mitigating the impacts of climate change. Furthermore, approximately 75% of countries deem these technologies essential in their adaptation strategies to climate change.

However, there is a glaring digital divide, as roughly a third of the world’s population remains offline. Countries with access to digital technologies can deliver services to their citizens three times faster than those without such advancements. This stark disparity underscores the immediate need for greater investment to bridge this digital divide and address the issue of insufficient internet access.

The concept of ‘greening’ the telecom infrastructure has been proposed as a fundamental response to climate change. The World Bank suggests two approaches: ‘greening digital,’ which involves making telecom infrastructure adaptable to climate change, and ‘greening with digital,’ which refers to the use of digital technologies to help reduce carbon emissions. The efficient implementation of these innovative strategies could combat the impending threats posed by climate change.

In addition, the ‘Lifeline Report,’ published by the World Bank in 2019, is notably significant in this context. This report assesses various forms of critical infrastructure through comprehensive country case studies and underlines the ‘one in four’ return on investment ratio for resilient infrastructure.

Open source data is acknowledged as essential for evaluations and the implementation of strategies, particularly by the World Bank. This institution utilises open source applications and data for in-country evaluations.

Lastly, there is a degree of uncertainty surrounding NetBlocks as a data source. Regardless, the analysis clearly demonstrates that urgent and strategic actions, particularly in the realms of resilient infrastructure, digital technologies, cybersecurity, and open data utilisation, are prerequisites in our fight against climate change and worldwide socio-economic challenges.

Tomohiro Otani

The analysis presents a vigorous, positive sentiment concerning the strategies prepared for disaster recovery and network environment monitoring. This readiness extends both locally and globally. Japan employs a robust strategy, operating a network of 12 centres spread out nationally, with the primary units located in Tokyo and Osaka. Advantageously, the time difference between Asian and European regions is leveraged for continuous global operations.

A notable facet of their strategy is the innovative use of advanced technology in disaster recovery. This includes a disaster recovery tool which proves instrumental in monitoring real-time situations and promptly coordinating teams to fix network failures. The disaster countermeasure dashboard efficiently collects data needed to delegate team members, considering the extent of environmental damage. Big data-based disaster management systems aid in simplifying the understanding of the situation’s scale and complexity. In conjunction with these technologies, drones are employed for remote monitoring, further bolstering recovery procedures.

Moreover, there is meticulous planning for recovery and continuity in cases of disasters. This comprises provisions for operators to download vital information to their devices before going on-site, crucial if telecommunication services fail. Also, no terrain is off-limits for network recovery efforts, including land, sky, sea, and even space.

Furthermore, regular training for disaster recovery and boosting network resilience is a key aspect of the strategy. This involves collaborations with various public sectors and municipalities, aiming not just to restore connections, but also to bring a sense of relief and positivity to the affected population.

The ongoing assurances to strengthen internet access were also underscored. Japanese operators are diligently constructing a 5G network nationwide, with the results showing substantial progress; over 90% availability has been realised in 5G coverage. However, Tomohiro Otani noted the disparities in coverage and speed between mobile and fixed services and conventions such as 4G and 5G. Otani suggests referring to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) website for precise figures on coverage and internet speed.

In conclusion, this widespread investment in disaster recovery, utilisation of cutting-edge technology, comprehensive continuity planning, and ongoing training, coupled with an ambitious 5G rollout programme, illustrates a progressive approach towards safeguarding and enhancing Japan’s digital infrastructure.

Roderic S. Santiago

PLDT Smart, awarded the title of fastest mobile network in the Philippines by GLOMO, has prioritised disaster resilience and sustainability. This aligns their corporate objectives with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 9 and 11, which pertain to industry, innovation, infrastructure, and sustainable cities. Headed by Eric Santiago, the company has implemented a variety of measures to optimise network performance while ensuring service sustainability and continuity during calamities.

Harnessing renewable energy, Smart has set up solar-powered sites, particularly beneficial for the Philippines, a nation frequently tormented by approximately 20 typhoons annually. This innovative approach significantly emphasises the necessity for a robust and resilient network that can maintain function during such adverse times. Additional initiatives include the Emergency Cell Broadcast System and Smart Satellite, technologies which are pivotal for disaster response and ensuring continuity of service.

Moreover, recognising the importance of education regarding disaster preparedness, systematic efforts have been made to utilise different modes of learning. This includes devising and distributing short online videos imparting essential knowledge about disaster responses. These are disseminated widely through websites and text messages. However, acknowledging the challenges of digital literacy among the population, face-to-face learning initiatives have also been instigated. Certain areas are targeted using caravans to provide hands-on demonstrations, ensuring education is reach-inclusive, even for those who aren’t tech-savvy.

An interesting concept in action is intergenerational learning, leveraging young people’s updated knowledge and adaptability. Youth are encouraged to teach their older family members about disaster preparedness, leading to increased household awareness.

In conclusion, the actions of PLDT Smart reflect a comprehensive approach towards disaster resilience, established through technological innovation and extensive education efforts. Their strategies highlight the practical intersection of multiple SDGs, reciprocally integrating objectives focusing on industry, infrastructure, and urban resilience with education. It’s an exemplary model, demonstrating the potential synergies achievable through incorporating various SDGs in strategy formation and execution.

Ken Katayama

Ken Katayama inaugurated the session with a warm and welcoming introduction before seamlessly transitioning into his role as moderator for the discussion on ‘Building Resilient Infrastructure’, conducted in Kyoto. His commendable affiliations include the distinguished Keio University Global Research Institute and the globally recognised Toyota Motor Corporation. This clearly establishes his depth of knowledge in Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and Quality Education, underscored by the primary themes of SDGs 9 and 4.

In a bid to maintain the efficiency and structure of the proceedings, Ken designated specific time allotments for speakers. Each contributor was assigned an eight-minute slot for their presentation, whilst a consolidated time of fifteen minutes was set aside for the entire Japanese delegation. This arrangement reflected Ken’s adept management skills and his emphasis on time efficiency, exemplifying a well-organised and succinct session.

In alignment with the principles of Quality Education (SDG 4), Ken championed interactive learning by encouraging attendees to participate actively. He specifically acknowledged Sugimoto-san’s potential to make valuable contributions to the conversation, thus fostering diverse viewpoints on the topics discussed.

With its focus on cultivating innovative solutions to reinforce resilient infrastructure and nurture sustainable cities and communities, the session manifested its alignment with SDGs 9 and 11. Inclusive and engaging moderation, alongside efficient time management, demonstrated Ken’s commitment to a productive dialogue.

In conclusion, Ken Katayama’s proficient moderation exemplified a well-structured, interactive dialogue centred on the development of resilient infrastructure. His prioritisation of effective time management, the promotion of audience interaction, and affiliation with impactful institutes highlighted his dedication to innovation, infrastructure development, and quality education. His work attests to the interconnected nature of these goals.

Masayoshi Morita

In 2011, the devastating Great East Japan Earthquake caused extensive damage to the nation, particularly impacting the critical communications infrastructure. This catastrophic event resulted in a worrying total of 385 communication buildings going offline, creating immense hurdles for the country’s emergency response systems. Additionally, sixteen communication buildings were severely damaged, and a staggering 1.5 million power lines were severed. This disaster starkly highlighted the vulnerability of Japan’s communication infrastructure to such destructive natural events and underscored the urgent necessity for efficacious and efficient disaster response strategies.

However, demonstrating fantastic resilience, the NTT group exhibited a robust response to the catastrophe. They mobilised an impressive workforce of 10,000, which remarkably enabled the restorative efforts of all affected communication buildings within a span of just 50 days, given the massive scale of devastation. This was primarily achieved by leveraging satellite communication devices and installing mobile base stations in the affected regions, establishing a vital lifeline in the mitigation of the overall aftermath of the disaster.

Learning from the calamitous event, the company has henceforth implemented several preventive measures to optimise their disaster response strategies. Key among these measures is the strategic initiative of relocating communication buildings and cables further inland or onto hillsides, thus reducing the risk of direct impact from tsunamis and floods. Innovative technologies, such as drones, have also been sought to predict potential disaster areas and plan efficient recovery procedures, thereby, significantly enhancing their disaster management strategy. Furthermore, a renewed emphasis on training, incorporating disaster response simulations and joint training initiatives with the Self-Defense Force, has been introduced to ensure a well-prepared, adept response team.

The company’s proactive approach aligns perfectly with two of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. By prioritising innovation in disaster management and developing resilient infrastructure, alongside creating sustainable and safe urban spaces, the strategies clearly embody these objectives.

In conclusion, the aftermath of the Great East Japan Earthquake illuminates the essential importance of comprehensive, effective disaster management strategies within the field of communications infrastructure, emphasising the pivotal role industry innovation plays in enhancing resilience against natural disasters.

Audience

The panel discussion encompassed a wide array of topics, with a principal focus on cyber security, disaster control, training, and telecommunications. Attending the audience, Sasaki Motsumura serves Workforce Development in the cyber security division at NICT. He underlined the challenge of raising awareness and pre-emptive preparation for potential incidents. Drawing comparisons with disaster control, the significance of hands-on training and simulation exercises were highlighted as means to boost awareness and preparedness. Specifically, the analogy between disaster prevention and control when addressing issues of cyber security was brought forth.

Regarding the governmental structure of Australia, the discussion revolved around their collaboration with the telecommunications industry. It was observed that both the federal government and the states/territories take on separate roles when interacting with the telecommunications sector. Furthermore, throughout exigencies such as bushfires and floods, the Australian government reportedly liaises with the telecom industry on an individual case basis, illustrating a tailor-made crisis management approach rather than a blanket policy.

Investment and finance also held a vital place in the conversation. In particular, the need for deciphering the return on investment was spotlighted. A bold proposition suggesting every £1 of investment yields £4 return invited the audience’s scepticism. This underscored the necessity for a clear conception of return on investments, specifically in the broader context of national infrastructure.

An enquiry was also raised about the status of the internet in Japan, focusing specifically on coverage and speed outside of emergency situations. This line of questioning shows the audience’s interest in understanding standard operational procedures for internet access in Japan and its potential performance during a crisis.

Regarding education, questions revolved around strategies to inculcate resilience and effective communication among the population. It was advocated that for successful long-term benefits, a deep understanding and transparent reflection of investments in education and communication are crucial. This connects back to the previous enquiry about understanding return on investments and indicates a more comprehensive concern about resource distribution in these areas.

To sum up, the discussion yielded significant insights into disaster management, cybersecurity, infrastructure investment, and the education system. It underlined the essentiality for a clear understanding of investments, the significance of public education, and the critical role training and exercises play in cyber defence and disaster control.

Yasuhiro Otsuka

Situated in a region prone to natural disasters, Japan frequently contends with severe disturbances to its communication services. A significant 20% of global earthquakes with a magnitude of six or above occur in the country’s vicinity. These intense seismic activities, coupled with destructive typhoons, often trigger heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides. These severe weather patterns subsequently cause drastic interruptions to the country’s communication networks.

The continuous provision of communication services has become integral to our modern lifestyles and the smooth operation of economic activities. Our societies’ growing dependence on these services emphasises the urgent need for resilient networks to withstand the frequent natural disasters that Japan experiences.

Taking heed of this call for resilience, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) in Japan has implemented revised technical standards. The aim of these changes is to extend the operational times of major base stations, thereby fortifying the stability of communication services across the country. These measures have facilitated the establishment of more than 9,000 mobile base stations, capable of continuous operation for 24 hours or longer. In addition, mobile power supply vehicles and portable generators have been deployed nationwide as part of a broader disaster response strategy. Notably, these advancements align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on industry, innovation, and infrastructure enhancement.

The MIC has also recognised the need for collaborative approaches to manage natural disasters. This has led to the establishment of partnerships with various government agencies, local municipalities, and public utility operators. These collaborative efforts aim to strengthen disaster resilience in Japan by leveraging the combined capabilities of different sectors. Platforms have been set up to facilitate collaboration on critical elements such as electricity, power, and fuel distribution, as well as the removal of obstacles on roads following disasters.

In conclusion, as Japan grapples with its susceptibility to natural disasters, the country is making positive strides towards industry innovation and infrastructure resilience. The vital role of communication services in contemporary society has been acknowledged, and a strong focus is placed on maintaining these services amidst natural disasters. This collaborative approach, which involves various sectors, is a significant step towards achieving the United Nations’ SDGs related to sustainable cities, communities, and infrastructural innovation.

Tara Konarzewki

Australia is grappling with a rise in extreme weather events, evidenced by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology. The summer of 2019-2020 witnessed widespread bushfires, causing extensive devastation and significantly impacting the nation’s telecommunications. These events, coupled with a recurrent pattern of destructive weather, underscore a pressing need for robust disaster resilience strategies.

The mandate for handling such disasters is shared amongst several entities. The federal government is in charge of managing policy and regulatory frameworks, whilst state and territory governments are charged with handling disaster response. Concurrently, the direct operation and maintenance of telecommunications networks fall upon the carriers themselves.

Key efforts towards strengthening disaster resilience include the Better Connectivity Plan by the Australian government. This initiative, supporting Goals 9 and 13 of the Sustainable Development Goals (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and Climate Action), devotes over $1.1 billion to rural and regional communities in Australia. The plan incorporates numerous measures to fortify resilience against the natural disasters that Australia routinely faces.

Furthermore, Australia’s federal structure significantly influences disaster control and engagement methods. Incidents are tackled on a case-by-case basis, necessitating cooperation between the government and the telecommunications industry. This structure calls for event-specific planning given the cyclical nature of bushfires and floods at specified times of the year.

Overall, whilst there’s escalating action towards addressing the urgent issue of climate-induced disasters, more targeted planning and collaborative efforts between the government and telecommunication providers could boost Australia’s resilience to these extreme weather events. Long-tail keywords included in this summary include Australian government, extreme weather events, telecommunications, bushfires, disaster resilience strategies, Better Connectivity Plan, Sustainable Development Goals, Industry Innovation and Infrastructure, Climate Action, rural and regional communities, and federal structure.

Speakers