Measures for environmental conservation in enclosed coastal seas

Area of Science:

• Marine ecology
• Environmental management
• Nutrient cycling

Background:

• The Ministry of the Environment (MOE) developed the Action Plan for Healthy Material Circulation in Ocean (Healthy Plan) to balance marine nutrient salts like nitrogen and phosphorus.
• The Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011 caused severe environmental damage, destroying seaweed beds and spawning grounds in affected bays.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement an integrated land-sea management approach for healthy nutrient circulation in ocean ecosystems.
• To initiate recovery activities for Zostera (eelgrass) beds in tsunami-affected regions.

Main Methods:

• Pilot implementation of the Healthy Plan in selected model regions.
• Utilizing "Sato-umi Creation" concepts and methods for environmental recovery projects.
• Focusing on the recovery of Zostera (eelgrass) beds as a key component of marine habitat restoration.

Main Results:

• The Healthy Plan is currently in a pilot phase, with initial implementation in model regions.
• Recovery efforts are underway to restore damaged marine environments, specifically targeting Zostera beds.
• The integrated approach aims to facilitate smooth nutrient circulation and restore ecological balance.

Conclusions:

• The Healthy Plan provides a framework for integrated marine nutrient management.
• Environmental recovery projects, like Zostera bed restoration, are crucial for mitigating the impacts of natural disasters.
• Successful implementation is expected to promote healthier marine ecosystems and material circulation.