Climate Forecast Data Saves Us from Disasters

Floods are one of the most frequent natural disasters on Earth, and they are increasing at larger scales than ever because of climate change. Gaia Vision, founded by Yuki Kita, offers a platform for flood forecasting services and climate risk analysis using high-resolution flood simulation technology developed at the Institute of Industrial Science, the University of Tokyo.

Kita has been concerned about the damage to beautiful nature and cultural assets by disasters since he was very young. As an undergraduate, he participated in activities to raise public awareness regarding the necessity of afforestation and environmental protection, wishing to contribute to these issues. In the GSFS, he researched the integration between the atmosphere and oceans, analyzing the impact of waves on low pressure. Moreover, in different classes at the GSFS, he learned to view problems from various perspectives and experienced solutions through cutting-edge research and underlying natural disaster challenges firsthand.

First, he wanted to pursue an academic career but realized that he could directly engage in natural disaster and climate change issues in business; therefore, he joined a property insurance agency. In his role analyzing the risks associated with natural disasters, he became convinced that academia and businesses must cooperate to develop practical mitigation strategies for climate change. Fortunately, the global trend of risk management and information disclosure in the business sector commenced around 2020, which encouraged him to make a big decision: starting a business.

Through communications with climate ventures in other countries, he became confident in his idea of starting a business based on the knowledge and techniques he gained during a doctoral course at GSFS. He eventually founded Gaia Vision Inc. with the cofounder, Demoto, while working as a researcher at the Institute of Industrial Science, the University of Tokyo.

The main aim of Gaia Vision is to analyze underlying climate risks in companies and offers flood area forecast for up to one-and-a-half days ahead. They currently offer these services to over 100 companies, mostly manufacturers, free of charge (charging 20 companies.) They also promote joint projects with universities and new projects using artificial satellites.

Climate Vision (an application for climate risk analysis) for evaluating the impact of floods on finance

Kita’s goal is to reassure society by encouraging individuals, companies, and municipalities to participate in climate change adaptation.

“People are not really aware of the relationship between climate change and everyday lives or businesses. I would like to inform people about climate phenomena and when to be careful in a sensible way and provide tools for considering climate change.”

Kita wishes to diminish the effects of climate change by offering concrete measures developed by visualizing risks through technology.

(Interview and text by Yoko Takada)

Message to Current GSFS Students

Yuki Kita (Left) and the cofounder of Gaia Vision, Satoru Demoto (Right)

You’ve Got More Than You Think

I have learned that even small pieces of knowledge or technology can help you achieve your goal as long as you stay committed. Do not give up on your aspirations, and more and more people will support your ideas. Follow your heart, and let us contribute to creating a better society with our abilities.