Reported by A/Prof Tay Zhi Yung
The 3rd World Conference on Floating Solutions (WCFS2023) was held at Nihon University in Tokyo from August 28th to 30th, 2023. This exceptional interdisciplinary gathering follows the successful editions held in Singapore (WCFS2019) and Rotterdam (WCFS2020), and is dedicated to the exploration of innovative solutions, urban planning, and policymaking associated with floating structures.
WCFS2023 achieved remarkable success under the capable organization of a consortium led by the University of Tokyo and Nihon University, with a central mission of pioneering the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Next SDGs by harnessing the full potential of the ocean and water resources.
The Society of Floating Solutions Singapore (SSFS) takes great pride in the seamless execution of WCFS2023, which boasted over 150 attendees and featured the presentation of 60 research papers. Members of SSFS played a pivotal role as the Advisory Committee for WCFS2023, actively participating in the memorable moments held in Japan.
A highlight of WCFS2023 was the special exhibition dedicated to the visionary work of the late Dr. Kiyonori Kikutake, particularly his ‘Hawaii Floating City’76,’ a pioneering prototype of a self-sufficient floating city designed to address the challenges of overpopulation and land scarcity caused by urbanization. Industry leaders in floating cities, including the Shimizu Corporation, showcased their innovative ‘Green Float’ concept during the exhibition.
The grand finale of WCFS2023 was marked by a splendid banquet held at the enchanting Hilltop Hotel, where heartfelt thanks were extended to the sponsors, and outstanding papers by young researchers were duly recognized and celebrated. Anticipation is building for WCFS2024, scheduled to take place in Hong Kong PolyU in December 2024, promising another delightful experience.
As a captivating post-conference event, delegates were treated to a technical tour of the Tokyo Bay eSG Project, sailing aboard the electric boat ‘Samurai’ across Tokyo Bay. The Tokyo Bay eSG Project envisions the transformation of Tokyo Bay into a sustainable city that seamlessly integrates ‘Nature’ and ‘Convenience,’ exemplifying an inspiring vision of urban development.
Pre-conference reception held at the 120-year-old Hibiya-Matsumotoro. The party was attended by the organizers, sponsors, keynotes speakers as well as delegates from SSFS.
SFSS’s co-founder and first president, Mr. Lim Soon Heng giving a speech at the pre-conference reception.
Sake Barrel Breaking Ceremony to launch the start of WCFS2023
Professor Wang Chien Ming presenting a toast to the delegates at the post-conference Banquet.
Technical tour – Tokyo Bay eSG project: Envisaging a model city at the Tokyo Bay that achieves a balance between sustainability and economy with society to promote the image of a city of the future.