The joint initiative by Kanazawa University, Komatsu City, Kubota Corporation, Toyama Prefectural University, and the Research Organization of Information and Systems, has received an Excellence Award in the 2025 “STI for SDGs” program hosted by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST). The award recognizes their joint initiative titled “Creating Public Value and Raising Awareness of Infectious Diseases through Wastewater-Based Information Sharing.”
Launched in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the project—known as the “Komatsu City Model”—has been underway since 2021. It involves wastewater sampling, virus analysis, data interpretation, and public communication, carried out through a multi-sector partnership among academia, government, and industry.
By actively disseminating information on infectious disease trends to residents, the initiative aims to transform public awareness and behavior, foster inclusive health responses, and stimulate new industries. The project was highly praised for establishing a sustainable model that engages not only academia, government, and industry, but also healthcare institutions and local communities. It also envisions enhancing the value of sewer systems as a foundational part of social infrastructure.
Looking ahead, the team plans to expand the initiative nationwide in collaboration with organizations such as the National Council for Wastewater Surveillance Promotion and the Japan Wastewater Surveillance Association. Through these efforts, the project seeks to contribute to inclusive infectious disease control and the realization of a sustainable society.
In the 2025 ????????"STI for SDGs" Awards, one project received the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award, one received the JST President’s Award, four projects were selected for the Excellence Award, four for the Encouragement Award, and two for the Next Generation Award. The award ceremony and presentations by representatives of the winning projects were held on Saturday, October 25, 2025.
Photo: Second from the left is Honda Professor
【Roles of Participating Organizations in the Project】
| Kanazawa University | Development of technologies for virus detection in wastewater Advisory support on wastewater monitoring. |
| Komatsu City | Provision of wastewater samples;
Public dissemination of information and awareness-raising among residents Facilitation of dialogue with healthcare professionals. |
| Kubota Corporation | Analysis of wastewater, including virus detection and data interpretation Development of technologies for virus detection in wastewater. |
| Toyama Prefectural University | Development of technologies for virus detection in wastewate Advisory support on wastewater monitoring |
| Research Organization of Information and Systems (ROIS) | Promotion of the initiative to other municipalities and relevant organizations |
【Glossary】
*1: "STI for SDGs" Award
An award program under JST’s Co-Creation for the Future initiative that recognizes outstanding Japan-based efforts using science, technology, and innovation (STI) to address social challenges and contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Reference： https://www.jst.go.jp/ristex/sdgs-award/about/overview.html
*2: Science, Technology and Innovation (STI)
Activities that leverage scientific discoveries and technological advancements to solve societal issues, promote the achievement of the SDGs, and drive social transformation.
Researcher's Information：Ryo Honda
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