A new concept for lower-lying land areas and coastal villages safe from natural disasters

Over the next century or two, rising sea levels resulting from the global warming and the increased frequency of extensive natural disasters caused by global climate change will bring about serious problems. Such problems are especially foreseen in lower-lying coastal and riverside areas, located below sea level. In this paper, we introduced a new concept that utilizes floating foundations to create an urban community base in man-made lagoons and/or inlets. This paper proposes the establishment of secure bases by using floating structure to safeguard against any risk brought about by future natural disasters, especially flooding due to heavy rain, storm surges caused by typhoons, tsunamis, earthquakes and so on. In addition, and idea for reconstruction of coastal areas in northeast Japan which was devastated by the extraordinary tsunami is introduced. This idea will help realize a sustainable city and rural environment for a prosperous future.