One Year After Establishing Comprehensive Collaboration Agreement with Azabu University, Asahi Kasei Homes Holds Mid-term Report Meeting for Endowed Chair Research Themes
Asahi Kasei Homes and Azabu University held a mid-term report meeting for their endowed chair on pet-coexisting society.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: March 30, 2026 at 23:00
- 🔍 Collected: March 30, 2026 at 22:56
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 16, 2026 at 04:20 (389h 24m after Collected)
Asahi Kasei Homes Corporation (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President: Yuji Yamato) and the School Corporation Azabu University (Location: Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture; Chairman: Hiroaki Ogura) announced on March 16th that they held a mid-term report meeting for the endowed chair (*1) "Pet and Human Coexisting Society for LONGLIFE" established at Azabu University. The report meeting featured presentations on three research themes and a panel discussion on the theme of "Urban Pet Coexistence.".
*1: https://www.asahi-kasei.co.jp/j-koho/press/20250515/index/
Ⅰ. About the Endowed Chair "Pet and Human Coexisting Society for LONGLIFE"
In this joint research, we are promoting research from the following three perspectives to create a society where pets and people can live with peace of mind.
1. Improvement of Living Environment
Design of "spaces and times that support coexistence," such as housing/block design, circulation, and time zones.
2. Formation of Community
Creating mechanisms for greetings, interaction, and mutual aid to arise naturally.
3. Construction of Social Network
Creation of co-creation models in collaboration with local governments, universities, companies, and communities.
Ⅱ. About the Research Themes
Based on the perspectives in I, we have set the following three themes:
1. Improvement of Living Environment: Coexistence between pets and humans through microorganisms.
2. Formation of Community: The role of dogs in local communities and the creation of social relationships.
3. Construction of Social Network: Building a mutual care system for pets and humans.
Presentations were given on themes 1 and 2 at the mid-term report meeting.
1. Improvement of Living Environment: Coexistence between pets and humans through microorganisms
This research explores the impact of microorganisms (microbiome) shared by humans and dogs on physical and mental health. It was confirmed that the microbial structure of the living environment differs depending on whether pets are kept, and that contact with dogs may have a positive impact on children's psychological well-being. In the future, we aim to advance demonstration experiments in urban areas and apply the findings to the design of healthy living environments.
2. Formation of Community: The role of dogs in local communities and the creation of social relationships
This research focuses on the function of dogs as mediators connecting people in urban settings. The survey revealed that the majority of people are "indifferent," rather than opposed, and that "misunderstandings" and lack of information are the background to friction. It was shown that greetings and conversations involving dogs have the potential to contribute to the formation of social capital, such as a sense of security and disaster preparedness in the community.
Ⅲ. Dialogue-based Hearing: Results of Group Interviews with Mixed Groups of "Pet Owners and Non-Owners"
Through dialogue in mixed groups where pet owners, interested parties, and uninterested parties were present, we visualized the "structure of misunderstandings" based on different perspectives and identified what is necessary for coexistence.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the endowed chair "Pet and Human Coexisting Society for LONGLIFE"?
The endowed chair aims to research and promote the formation of a society where pets and humans can live together safely and comfortably, focusing on improving living environments, fostering community, and building social networks.
What were the main research themes presented at the mid-term report meeting?
The mid-term report meeting focused on two main research themes: 1. The coexistence between pets and humans through microorganisms, exploring the impact of shared microbiomes on health. 2. The role of dogs in local communities and the creation of social relationships, examining how dogs can act as mediators connecting people.
What were the key findings regarding the impact of pets on human well-being?
Research indicated that the microbial structure of living environments differs based on pet ownership, and contact with dogs may positively influence children's psychological well-being. Additionally, interactions involving dogs can potentially foster a sense of community security and disaster preparedness.
How does the research address potential conflicts or misunderstandings between pet owners and non-owners?
The research involves mixed group interviews with pet owners, interested parties, and uninterested individuals to visualize the "structure of misunderstandings" arising from different perspectives. This aims to identify necessary elements for coexistence and mitigate friction.
What are the future goals of this research collaboration?
Future goals include advancing demonstration experiments in urban areas to apply findings to the design of healthy living environments and continuing to build co-creation models in collaboration with various stakeholders.