Blab [Interview] “Focusing on mobility—a critical piece of social infrastructure—we highlight local social issues and implement solutions in society.” B Lab's "Mobility and Social Design" Project.
A conversation with Professor Koichiro Takahara of iU.
"Focusing on mobility—a critical piece of social infrastructure—we will highlight regional social issues and implement solutions in society."
How Can Technology and Design Transform “Mobility Challenges”?
The AI-powered shared shuttle service operated by NearMe is not just a convenient mode of transportation; it is a challenge to “redesign society itself” with mobility at its core.
We’re working to solve everyday inconveniences—such as getting around after surrendering a driver’s license, traffic congestion at tourist spots, and driving children to and from activities—through “shared mobility.”
What struck me was the perspective of “prioritizing the quality of movement over the quantity.”
If each car were used more efficiently, local transportation would become sustainable.
What Kind of New Society Will Mobility Create?
It was a really exciting story. You should definitely give it a read!
Report
https://blaboratory.org/news/iu_blab_project_02/
Video
Professor, Keio University; Ph.D. (Policy and Media)
Director, B Lab
Chairperson, Learning of Tomorrow (General Incorporated Association)
Chairperson, CANVAS
After graduating from the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Tokyo, he served as a visiting researcher at the MIT Media Lab before founding the NPO CANVAS and the Learning of Tomorrow Association, a General Incorporated Association, and assuming the role of representative. He serves as an outside director for Matsuya Co., Ltd., Fuji Media Holdings, Inc., and Digital Garage, Inc.
He has served on various government committees, including the Information and Communications Council of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, as well as the NHK Central Broadcasting Program Council. He also serves as a director of the Digital Signage Consortium, among other roles. He holds a Ph.D. in Policy and Media.
His publications include *Turning On Children’s Creativity!*, *What Are Smart Kids Doing on Their Smartphones?*, *The Forefront of Online Education in Japan: Considering Learning in the Post-COVID Era*,“What Is Programming Education? 45 Questions Parents Want to Know,” and “Declaration on Digital Education.” He has also provided supervision for numerous works, including “Ah, I See! Programming Education for Parents and Children Through Manga.”
