Japan is struck by over 1,500 earthquakes every year.
The 2011 earthquake measuring 9.0 that struck north-eastern Japan triggered a devastating tsunami.
20,000 people were killed and 120,000 homes were destroyed.
Today, the recovery process continues and many are rebuilding their businesses.
But disaster will never defeat the people of Japan.
I’m Erica with the Case for Change in Japan.
I’m here in Kamaishi to hear first-hand accounts about the 2011 earthquake
and to understand just how critical connectivity is following natural disasters.
I’m on my way to the KDDI offices.
The long-term effects can still be felt on the fishing industry today.
319 fishing ports were wiped out. 28,000 boats destroyed.
And the damage totalled over 1 trillion Yen.
and the need to understand an ecosystem that was altered forever.
and the need to understand an ecosystem that was altered forever. The tsunami served to highlight the ever-changing and unpredictable nature of the oceans
I’m visiting Matsushima to meet with fishermen Ninomiya-san and Kawhata-san,
to hear how NTT DOCOMO’s mobile-connected smart buoys
are helping the industry recover after the tsunami set them back.
I use mobile and internet every single day but this trip has made me realise
that it’s something that I’ve been taking for granted.
Speaking to people who experienced the disaster in 2011 in Japan,
it’s hard to imagine how they must have felt when they couldn’t contact their families.
I also learned how mobile operators are assisting with the ongoing recovery efforts
and preparing the nation for when something like this might happen again.
Mobile technology really does have the power to transform millions of lives in so many different ways.
So please like, comment and share this video to spread the message.
Now though, the Case for Change is headed to India.
Travelling the world, it’s packed with everything people need to tell their story
of what mobile operators globally are doing to tackle the UN 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
So don’t forget to subscribe to the Case for Change YouTube channel to help us make a case for change.
