Message from the President

Since its establishment in 1974, the National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES) has consistently pursued its mission of addressing environmental challenges closely linked to society through scientific knowledge for more than fifty years. Environmental issues have become increasingly large-scale and complex in recent years, including the intensification of climate-related disasters, the loss of ecosystems, and growing resource constraints. Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the impacts of new chemical substances, plastics, and antibiotic-resistant bacteria—issues that are ever closer to our daily lives. Consequently, expectations for environmental science to address these challenges are rising significantly.

Fiscal Year 2026 marks the first year of our Sixth Five-Year Plan. Building on our existing initiatives, we have established three strategic research programs as priority areas and will promote integrated environmental research. We are also placing a strong emphasis on advancing data utilization and strengthening collaboration with society. Furthermore, we have reviewed our organizational structure, including the integration of public relations and outreach functions and the establishment of a preparatory body for data infrastructure development, to lay the groundwork for enhancing the dissemination of research outcomes and their implementation in society.

We are now at a critical juncture where fundamental transformations of society and the economy are truly required. NIES will continue to deepen collaboration with domestic and international research institutes, local governments, businesses, and citizens, to steadily advance impactful environmental research and expand initiatives that apply science to benefit society.

We sincerely appreciate your continued understanding and cooperation.