Japan has taken steps to prepare for natural disasters by installing vending machines that offer free food and drink in the event of a major earthquake or typhoon. Two machines have been set up in the city of Ako, which is located in a region vulnerable to earthquakes. These machines contain a variety of drinks and emergency food items and are placed near designated evacuation shelters. The manufacturer, Earth Corp, plans to install more machines throughout the country. This initiative aims to enhance the safety and security of residents in the face of increasing seismic activity and powerful typhoons.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Japan prepares vending machines for natural disasters | Preparing vending machines for disasters | More vending machines with emergency supplies | Increasing need for disaster preparedness |
| Machines installed in vulnerable coastal city of Ako | Installation of machines in vulnerable areas | Machines installed in more vulnerable areas | Identifying areas at risk for disasters |
| Machines contain food, drink, and emergency items | Adding emergency supplies to vending machines | More vending machines with emergency supplies | Providing immediate access to necessities during disasters |
| Machines unlock during heavy rain warning or evacuation order | Unlocking machines during emergencies | More vending machines with unlocked contents during emergencies | Ensuring access to essential resources during emergencies |
| Earth Corp is the first to manufacture such machines in Japan | Introduction of new vending machine technology | More companies manufacturing similar machines in Japan | Innovation in disaster preparedness technology |
| Vending machine with radio set up in Tokyo park | Adding emergency radios to vending machines | More vending machines with emergency radios | Improving communication during emergencies |
| Possibility of a “megaquake” occurring in the next 20-40 years | Increased likelihood of major earthquakes | Higher frequency and impact of major earthquakes | Growing concern for seismic activity |