Development of the Osaka Bay Area Mega-Infrastructure provides the economic engine needed to support the population and expansion of the Kansai Region. However, to ensure sustainable development of the coastal mega-infrastructure of Osaka Bay. it is essential that continued development be accompanied by protection, restoration. creation and conservation of the natural marine environment. The coastal infrastructure and the natural marine environment are impacted by coastal hazards,both natural and man- madesuch as marine pollution. Therefore, it is essential that far more emphasis be placed on the marine environment of Osaka Bay. To effectively achieve that goal, it is wise to establish a central environmental research center for Osaka Bay, and make a serious effort to conserve the natural marine environment and designate a marine sanctuary. Upon reviewing the coastal perimeter of Osaka Bay, a strong rationale can be made for selecting Awaji Island for a Marine Environmental Complex (MAREX ). with an adjacent marine sanctuary.
1. Introduction
Over the years, there has been much degradation of Osaka Bay brought about by the enormous industrial and residential expansion that included considerable reclamation and dredging activities resulting in habitat loss, soil erosion. and marine pollution.
Surveys have indicated that pollutants from industrial and residential sources have been transported by the many rivers feeding into the bay. Point source as well as land runoff and airborne pollutants contribute to the marine pollution degrading water quality and impacting fisheries and marine recreation. and ultimately the quality of life in the region.
Much has been said about the need for sustainable development of Osaka Bay. There are ongoing environmental research and monitoring projects and proposals to clean up the bay and protect the natural marine environment.
Much has been documented about the present environmental degradation of Osaka Bay largely due to the dense population and rapid economic growth, without full regard and consideration of the marine environment. The present global environmental situation has greatly spurred regional and national interest in sustainable development in harmony with the environment. This paper will briefly review the situation in Osaka Bay. and focus on protecting the natural environment relative to achieving sustainable development of Osaka Bay.
2. Background
In May 1994, a white paper approved by the Japan Cabinet recommended that the government create a system that makes it easier for both government and citizens to exchange information about the environment. In a report on "Sustainable World", Japan’s Environmental Agency recommended that: an environmental information network be established to raise the environmental consciousness and to aid in monitoring the environment; and provide local and regional governments with information and data on the environment; and on "green measures" that the
