Part 9/10:
Balancing the preservation of Japan’s cultural heritage, economic vitality, and environmental commitments remains a complex challenge. As the nation seeks to recover from the 2011 nuclear disaster and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, geothermal energy offers a promising solution—if its development can be harmonized with the interests of onsen industries and environmental safety.
Japan’s rich volcanic landscape provides enormous potential, but unlocking that power requires careful planning, scientific validation, and stakeholder collaboration. Moving forward, innovative approaches such as binary cycle technology and community engagement are crucial for harnessing geothermal energy without compromising Japan’s cherished scenic and cultural assets.