Globalisation has transformed the modern world, supporting economic growth as developed and developing countries become more and more entwined. Cultures, government policies and markets around the world have a history of interacting and influencing each other, but over recent years, the globalisation boom has transformed billions of lives by broadening connections between people, industries and entire nations.

In a world that’s increasingly interconnected, the seed of social innovation begins with an idea: one simple thought that has the power to change the world. As elements of our global society evolve at rapid speed, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the challenges we are faced with, which is why Hitachi uses collaborative creation to turn brilliant ideas into tangible realities.

Hitachi’s Social Innovation Business strives to resolve the complex issues faced by customers and societies by combining advanced IT with infrastructure technologies, co-creating stronger security solutions that can predict – maybe even prevent – threats in the age of the ‘Internet of Things’.

The seven key, global markets Hitachi is hoping to improve via Social Innovation are: Water, Energy, Manufacturing, Life & Economy, Research & Development, Transportation, and Urban Development.

An example of Social Innovation in action can be seen through Abu Dhabi’s Environment Agency, who are using Hitachi’s advanced technology to solve a complex conservation challenge: to reintroduce the Arabian Oryx into its natural habitat. Due to the only source of water in this remote desert lying deep underground, it actually holds twice the salt content of normal sea water, making it virtually impossible for this setting to harbour life. Hitachi is helping solve this convoluted issue by using solar-powered desalination plants to help revive native plant and animal species.

Hitachi has also been contributing to the global energy field, actively supporting the development and marketing of wind power generation systems to meet the growing demand for wind power. “Offshore wind power generation utilizing strong ocean winds has great potential for countries like Japan with vast offshore territory,” the company notes.

“Hitachi has already begun developing 5000 kW class offshore downwind turbines, and demonstration tests are scheduled to begin this year.

“Hitachi is striving to contribute to the creation of a low-carbon society through developing superior wind power generation systems,” adds the report.

Through a partnership with the Dar El Ashaa Radiology and Imaging Center, Hitachi is branching out into the Life & Economy market, hoping to address the critical need for medical imaging in Egypt. In order to meet the growing demand for MRI images in a country with limited budget, Hitachi Medical Systems has become a trusted partner, providing equipment with an innovative “open” design along with training and maintenance – all while keeping costs within tight control.

“When we come together, thinking on a global scale, we can create novel solutions to social problems,” the company concludes.

“At Hitachi, we strive to create environments and circumstances that foster big-picture thinking – to arrive at better answers to challenges and ensure a better quality of life.”

Find out more about Hitachi Social Innovation here