## Empowering Sustainability: Takahito Motonaga’s Endeavor to Foster a Greener Future for the Island of Miyakojima

Takahito Motonaga, a dedicated IBMer, is leveraging his expertise and passion to drive sustainable change in his hometown, Miyakojima City, Okinawa, Japan. As part of the IBM Sustainability Accelerator, a program that embodies IBM’s commitment to volunteerism and community impact, Motonaga is leading a clean energy initiative aimed at addressing the intricate energy challenges faced by this remote community.

### Making a Significant Impact in a Remote Locale

Miyakojima City, situated on the Miyako Islands, grapples with energy supply dependency on external sources, rendering its residents susceptible to increased costs and power outages induced by annual typhoons. Motonaga’s firsthand experience during his childhood fuels his determination to effect positive change in his community. His role as the squad leader for the IBM Sustainability Accelerator’s clean energy project involves developing an energy forecasting model to bolster the community’s self-sufficiency in renewable energy.

### Embracing the Opportunity to Engage

Motonaga’s engagement with local stakeholders underscores the program’s emphasis on incorporating indigenous insights into the project’s framework. By collaborating with local citizens and officials, he aims to fortify the approach to addressing energy issues while cultivating cultural and marketplace literacy among the volunteers.

### Contributing to a Lasting Legacy

IBM’s steadfast commitment to volunteerism, epitomized by the goal to deliver 4 million volunteer hours by 2025, empowers employees like Motonaga to make meaningful contributions to society. The Sustainability Accelerator not only aligns with IBM’s core values but also fosters a platform for skilled professionals to address local challenges, enrich their societal engagement, and make a difference in the communities they serve.

Motonaga encourages his peers to participate in the IBM Sustainability Accelerator, highlighting the opportunity to leverage diverse expertise and gain a broader perspective on societal issues. The program’s continued efforts exemplify IBM’s dedication to reinforcing community ties and driving sustainable change.

**Summary:** Takahito Motonaga, an IBMer, is spearheading a clean energy project in Miyakojima City through the IBM Sustainability Accelerator. His endeavors underscore IBM’s commitment to volunteerism and sustainable solutions, empowering employees to drive positive change in their communities.

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**FAQs**

**Q: What is the IBM Sustainability Accelerator?**
A: The IBM Sustainability Accelerator is a pro-bono social impact program where IBM volunteers contribute their time and expertise to drive lasting impact in communities globally.

**Q: How is Takahito Motonaga contributing to the clean energy project?**
A: Motonaga, as the squad leader, is involved in developing an energy forecasting model to enhance Miyakojima City’s self-sufficiency in renewable energy.

**Q: How does IBM support volunteerism?**
A: IBM has a goal to deliver 4 million volunteer hours by 2025, emphasizing its dedication to empowering employees to make meaningful contributions to society through programs like the Sustainability Accelerator.

**Q: Can IBM employees participate in the Sustainability Accelerator?**
A: IBM volunteers will have the opportunity to join the next cohort of the IBM Sustainability Accelerator, following a new RFP to be announced in 2024.

*Source: IBM*