The Ouranos Ecosystem: Pioneering Data Connectivity for Industry Innovation in Japan

The Data-Driven Revolution

In an era where information technology is flourishing, leveraging data has become the linchpin in driving industry innovation. In 2023, Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), in collaboration with the Information Processing Promotion Agency (IPA) and the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), announced the pioneering “Ouranos Ecosystem” project. This initiative aims to establish a cross-enterprise, cross-industry, and cross-border data linkage system to promote widespread data sharing and application, aligning with Japan’s “Society 5.0” vision for a smarter society.

The Concept of Ouranos Ecosystem

The Ouranos Ecosystem, a Japanese initiative, focuses on addressing social challenges such as labor shortages, intensifying disasters, and transitioning to a decarbonized society through comprehensive data sharing and system collaboration. Similar initiatives globally include Europe’s Gaia-X and Catena-X projects, which emphasize data sovereignty and digital platform interoperability. The United States is also advancing data sharing and services through blockchain technology, enhancing data security and fostering global data economy growth.