| Outline of Annual Research Achievements |
During the period from April 2019 to October 2019 onwards, I have completed the remaining parts of my JSPS research in accordance with the original research plan. I have investigated and analysed the domestic energy and maritime laws of Japan in order to determine whether there are adequate mechanisms in place to address environmental risks. Moreover, I have developed a set of concrete policy suggestions and recommendations as how to update the existing legal frameworks to ensure compliance with international environmental standards in Japan. In addition, I have presented my research at 5 international conferences in Japan and abroad, and gave a guest lecture at the Komaba Junior Highschool, University of Tsukuba, as part of the JSPS Science-Dialogue Program. Furthermore, I have published 3 research papers, including a comprehensive policy report, both in print and in electronic format. This report provides a background to the science and engineering of Japan’s offshore methane hydrates, on the place of the natural gas produced from those hydrates in Japan’s overall energy policies, and how Japan might best legally prepare for the onset of natural gas production from those offshore hydrate assets. Finally, on 28 November 2019, I organised a roundtable discussion at the British Institute of International and Comparative Law (BIICL) in London to present my research findings and allow a broad discussion about this topic and way forward.
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