A2. TobaCCommunity 2050

Intensity of Human Connections

Solitary deaths among the elderly and young people who have been cut off from social contacts and relationships have become a social problem, and mutual aid ties have been lost in the community.

After the world war II, values of ambition, diligence, and unity spread. During rapid economic growth, confidence in innovation and growth increased. In the bubble era, prosperity and optimism led to excessive investment and consumption.

After the bubble burst, economic uncertainty led to a focus on stability and risk avoidance. Following the Lehman Shock, non-regular employment and deaths from overwork increased, and issues like a declining birthrate, aging population, and economic disparity became significant challenges.

With the focus on digitalization and environmental issues, flexible working styles and a slow life approach are becoming more common. The importance of local communities and mutual support is being re-recognized, and there is a growing awareness of enjoying nature and hobbies.

As digitalization progresses, the pursuit of societal happiness and considerate actions become crucial. Efforts towards environmental protection and a sustainable society advance, respecting diversity and forming a harmonious society.

After the world war II, tobacco became a popular luxury item. During Japan’s economic boom, "TobaCCommunication" emerged, promoting smoking through ads and media. However, health concerns and passive smoking issues during the bubble economy period led to a decline in tobacco’s perception.

After the bubble economy burst, health awareness and tobacco taxes rose, reducing smoking rates. Strict regulations made public places smoke-free. Despite healthier alternatives like e-cigarettes, anti-smoking sentiment remains strong and widespread.

Throughout history, technological innovations have led to the creation of functional foods, sugar-free and zero-calorie options, and groundbreaking medications that consider health and the human body. Similarly, e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products were developed to address health risks, but they were not sufficient. However, in 2050, a breakthrough high-performance filter technology was established that neutralizes the harmful effects of mainstream and sidestream smoke from traditional cigarettes.

This new technology successfully eliminates nicotine’s addictive properties, extracting only its benefits. It promotes the release of dopamine and acetylcholine, enhancing concentration and memory, and has shown effectiveness in preventing Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Additionally, it produces no tar and is non-toxic, eliminating the health risks associated with smoking and making smoking itself beneficial to health.

With no adverse health effects and the potential to improve memory and concentration, the age restriction for those under 20 was deemed unnecessary. The law was revised, making “smoking only after 20” a thing of the past. As a functional and superior recreational product, it became useful for all ages, and children began to smoke naturally.

As a secondary effect of smoking, real and casual communication emerges. In particular, in aging and declining populations, daily communication among residents is crucial for sustainable communities. Smoking areas are established throughout the region, where people gather and smoke, connecting individuals of all ages. This naturally fosters relaxed communication and the formation of communities. This is the new era of “TobaCCommunication”.