🌺 The Ocean of Miyakojima Is Crying

— Coral bleaching, marine debris, groundwater pollution… What we can do now to protect this paradise for the future.

🐠 Are You Only Seeing the “Blue”?

The sky and sea of Miyakojima are crystal clear.

But behind that beauty, the coral is turning white, the ocean is suffering, and the land is crying out.

An increase in tourists brings joy to the island’s economy.

But now, it is time for both locals and visitors to pause and reflect.

🌊 The Coral Before Our Eyes Is Turning White

Once vibrant coral reefs spread across the shallow seas of Miyakojima.

Now, many of them are experiencing abnormal “bleaching.”

Causes include:

• Rising sea temperatures due to global warming
• Abnormal outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish
• Harmful chemicals from sunscreen and cosmetics
• Physical damage from being stepped on

Coral reefs are not just scenery.

They are nurseries for fish, natural breakwaters, and vital tourism resources.

🚯 Marine Debris Is Not “Someone Else’s Problem”

During the winter monsoon season, massive amounts of debris wash up on Miyakojima’s shores.

Plastic bags, bottles, syringes, explosives, fishing lines—and even plastics that endanger sea turtles.

This is not just someone else’s problem.

Trash left by tourists, or a simple shopping bag, may become a burden passed on to the future.

💧 Miyakojima’s Water Supply Is 100% Groundwater

Miyakojima has no rivers.

All water used for daily life, hotel showers, and the water supply comes from underground.

But this groundwater is gradually being polluted by pesticides, household wastewater, and illegal dumping.

At this rate, a day may come when there is no drinkable water left on the island.

🛶 The Downside of Overtourism

With more than 1 million visitors per year, the island is experiencing:

• Taxi shortages
• Overcrowded beaches
• Increased waste
• Environmental degradation

This can no longer be seen as a “sign of popularity.”

Tourism only works when the “hosts” and “guests” share imagination and respect.

🌱 “Eco-Island Declaration 2.0” Backed by the SDGs

The City of Miyakojima has adopted the “Eco-Island Miyakojima Declaration 2.0,”

aiming for coral restoration, groundwater protection, waste reduction, and renewable energy adoption.

Specific targets are set for 2030 and 2050.

But those goals cannot be achieved by government action alone.

Every small action by “locals” and “visitors” is essential.

🫱‍🫲 To the Residents: Change Starts at Our Feet

• Avoid using plastic bags
• Reconsider the use of chemical fertilizers
• Get in the habit of picking up one piece of marine debris
• Tell your children stories about the sea

Never forget that your daily choices shape the future of this island.

🧳 To the Visitors: Take Home More Than Just Memories

• Choose “reef-safe” sunscreen
• Do not step on or touch coral
• Pick up a piece of trash on the beach
• Use water wisely
• Join eco-tours or local environmental activities

Don’t just admire the beautiful sea—become a protector of it.

🌍 The Future of Miyakojima Is in 

Your

 Hands

So that Miyakojima can remain a shining destination 50 years from now.

So that local children can be proud of their ocean.

So that visitors can leave feeling more connected and thoughtful each time.

Small actions lead to big change.

Let’s create a sustainable Miyakojima, where tourism and local life walk hand in hand.