I participated in the 26th International River Symposium (IRS), held on 9–10 September 2025 in Brisbane, Australia.
The International River Symposium, organized by the International River Foundation, is a global forum that brings together river managers, policymakers, scientists, NGOs, the private sector, Indigenous groups, and a wide range of stakeholders. The symposium provides a platform to share the environmental, social, and economic values of rivers and to discuss best practices in basin management. Through knowledge exchange and collaboration, it aims to accelerate practical actions that improve the sustainable management and resilience of rivers worldwide.
The theme of the 26th IRS was “River Revolution: Accelerating Solutions for Climate Resilience.” The program featured a one-day masterclass, a two-day main conference, and a vibrant series of evening events, including the award ceremony for the Thiess International River Prize. The entire program was highly interactive and enriched by diverse perspectives.
- Promoting IWRM under Japan’s 2024 Revised Basic Plan on Water Cycle Policy
During the symposium, I delivered a presentation titled “Promoting Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) under Japan’s 2024 Revised Basic Plan on Water Cycle Policy.” The presentation traced the evolution of Japan’s water policy—from postwar national development to today’s multi-stakeholder-driven, integrated river basin management. I highlighted Japan’s latest IWRM initiatives addressing challenges such as climate change, aging infrastructure, and demographic shifts. Key topics included basin-wide planning across 84 river basins, public–private and community collaboration, data-driven water management, resilient infrastructure, and the introduction of nature-based solutions (NbS) aligned with national efforts toward carbon neutrality by 2050. Japan’s approach—featuring integrated basin planning, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and adaptive, data-informed governance—offers valuable insights for advancing IWRM internationally.
- Thiess International River Prize 2025: Awarded to Friends of the Chicago River
The prestigious Thiess International River Prize—established in 1999 and awarded biennially—was presented in 2025 to Friends of the Chicago River in recognition of their remarkable efforts to restore the Chicago River.
Once neglected and inaccessible, the Chicago River has been transformed into a vibrant urban waterway through community-driven initiatives. A public swimming event was held for the first time since 1927, symbolizing the river’s dramatic recovery. The number of fish species, fewer than 10 when activities began in 1979, has now rebounded to over 75.
Through restoration actions, policy advocacy, and community engagement, Friends of the Chicago River has revitalized thousands of acres of natural habitat and implemented innovative projects such as the “Michigan Avenue Fish Hotel,” which helps return aquatic life to the urban center. More than 60,000 people participate in their activities each year, expanding the river stewardship movement across the city.
International River Foundation Chair Michael Wright praised the organization, stating, “Their success exemplifies a legacy of ecological restoration and civic pride, inspiring cities around the world.”
➤about Friends of the Chicago River (Website)
- Memorial at the Evening Event
During the evening event, participants honored the late Dr. Mark Pascoe, founder of the International WaterCentre and former Chair of the Asia-Pacific Water Forum (APWF), who passed away in August 2022. His enduring contributions to the water sector were warmly remembered and deeply resonated with all attendees.
（Reported by Yumiko Asayama, Chief Manager）
