The University of Tokyo, RIKEN, and Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Enhance Global Climate Research
On July 1, 2025, the University of Tokyo’s Center for Global Commons (CGC) and Institute for Future Initiatives (IFI) entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with RIKEN and the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK). The signing ceremony was conducted online and featured the attendance of notable individuals such as RIKEN President Makoto Gonokami and IFI Director Kenji Fukushi.
Objectives of the MoU
The MoU aims to advance scientific research aimed at safeguarding the Global Commons. Key activities specified in the agreement include:
- The exchange of researchers and staff.
- Sharing of scientific and technological information, which encompasses joint lectures, seminars, and symposia.
- The exchange of scientific and technological research materials.
- Collaboration on joint research initiatives.
- The dissemination of research findings through joint symposia and publications, including white papers.
- Engagement in additional relevant programs and activities.
Previous Collaborative Efforts
Since 2020, CGC/IFI and PIK have collaborated on research focusing on climate change scenarios and strategies for transitioning to a sustainable socio-economic system. This partnership has produced significant outcomes such as evaluations of the economic impacts on the global environmental system and the development of frameworks for responsible management of Global Commons.
RIKEN’s Involvement
In fiscal year 2024, RIKEN joined this partnership, contributing its expertise in plant science, materials science, and information science to the collaborative research efforts. A key event in this initiative was the ‘Global Commons Forum’ hosted by RIKEN and CGC in October 2024, which involved discussions among leaders from academia, industry, and non-governmental organizations regarding strategies for protecting the Global Commons and moving towards a new economic model.
Future Directions
The signing of the MoU is anticipated to strengthen academic relationships among RIKEN, PIK, and CGC, furthering the initiative’s objective of developing responsible management practices for the Global Commons and enhancing collaboration with various leaders and research institutions. Looking ahead, CGC plans to continue fostering institutional partnerships, building networks between science and society, and engaging in policy recommendations and impact evaluations.
(Source: University of Tokyo)
