Place-based environmental education to promote eco-initiatives: the case of Yokohama, Japan

Due to its rapid population growth and urban development, the environment of Yokohama in Japan has significantly degraded. In response, substantial efforts have been made to address socio-environmental issues. One such initiative was a programme called G-30. Implemented in 2005, it aimed to reduce 30% of the amount of garbage waste by 2010, in comparison with that of 2001, by promoting ‘Recycle, Reduce, and Reuse’ (3Rs). Ultimately, the city reduced 43% of its garbage waste during that period. The Japanese government designated the city as one of the Environmental Model Cities in 2008, Environmental Future Cities in 2011 and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Future Cities in 2018, while the World Bank recognized it as one of the Eco2Cities in 2010. A place-based environmental education tool called the eco-picture diary has significantly contributed to the success of the G-30 programme and the designation of the above-stated eco-initiatives. Through documentation research and a series of interviews with stakeholders, the current study examines the eco-picture diary and its potential roles in promoting eco-initiatives, applying the change theory for place-based education. Findings suggest that the eco-picture diary, as a place-based environmental education tool, can promote eco-initiatives by broadening and deepening community social capital.