Direction and trend of networking technology in Japan to save finite natural resources - after undergoing the East Japan megaquake

Abstract

The East Japan megaquake left huge impacts to the entire nation. The information and communication technology area is not an exception. The destruction of nuclear power plants by the tsunami led the poverty in electric power, which forced the Japanese people to see energy saving in a new light. The confusion in telecommunication, caused by the destruction of the networks and the congestion of heavy emergency traffic, also amplified the necessity of efficient utilisation of finite radio frequencies. This paper introduces the direction and trends of R&D activities in Japan for saving natural resources such as energy and radio frequency, which are focused more intensively after the disaster. 'Green' activities try to expand their contribution to the telecommunication area. Many smart grid projects have been accelerated and have started field trials. New schemes to share limited frequencies also came into the spotlight. These activities will save natural resources more effectively than ever.