This entry is for the development of a self-contained, isolated production system for genetically modified plants. Plants developed for medicinal purposes (such as for anticancer drugs or vaccines) can be cultivated in isolation in a completely artificial environment and processed, from harvesting to extraction to refining. Enabling cultivation of a variety of crop species, the system combines expertise in diverse technical fields - plant biotechnology, vegetable "factories", and pharmaceutical production systems. Atmospheric pressure in each room can be controlled at different levels. A system to prevent genetic contamination removes particles such as pollen that are expelled in the air from the facility and sterilizes irrigation water and waste material. Pharmaceuticals are prepared in a production system that supports a high level of air purity (Class 100), and the cultivation chamber light intensity has maximum intensity of 100,000 lux. What's more, the temperature, humidity, and CO2 concentration are controlled automatically, according to programmed instructions.

This production system for genetically modified plants, primarily developed for production of medicinal substances, is the result of extraordinary research design, unprecedented even on a global scale for the comprehensive and multidisciplinary work involved: research on plant biotechnology, safety technology (to prevent genetic contamination), next-generation pharmaceutical manufacturing systems, and high-efficiency agricultural factories. Although this work was done at a research and testing center, the developers even adopted a communication design program to convey the significance and results of research to participants, with the aim of consensus building. In Japan, development of intellectual property in the field of genetic modification and investigation of related applications is a priority in national policy. Proposing technology-based solutions to potential food shortages from intensifying global warming is one facet of responding to global issues that are expanding in scale. The wealth of genetic intellectual property for agriculture, forestry, and marine products that Japan holds is vital in the context of contributing to the international community or engaging in international business. Most important, this kind of outstanding research design model can be applied in the infrastructure of industrial technology under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (which has been separated by ministerial barriers from affairs of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare), for sustainable food business or for patient treatment methods after examination and diagnosis. In this sense, it is the kind of model that will be desirable in years to come, and as such, it is a worthy candidate for a Good Design gold award and an excellent proposal with social impact. [Manabu Akaike, D01 unit leader]