In January 1996, Prime Minister R. Hashimoto stated in his policy speech that, "it is imperative that we rethink our mass production, mass consumption, mass disposal, social and economic activity and life style and consider how we can best pass the rich bounties of nature to future generations, just as they were bequeath to us; as well as making every effort to promote comprehensive measures for the creation of better relationships between ourselves and our environment". This vital goal is essential in achieving sustainable development for Japan and the world.
In July 1996, an article in the Japan Times newspaper indicated that the Keindanren urges businesses to think about the environment and develop their own action plans for more efficient use of energy resources. step up recycling efforts, and develop new waste disposal technologies.
Sustainable development, as it applies to the Osaka Bay Area, means to continue development of the coastal infrastructure to provide the necessary economic growth and accommodate the needs of a growing coastal population. without further degradation of the regional environment nor the quality of life for the regions inhabitants In essence, to sustain the quality of life enjoyed today and to preserve or improve this quality for the enjoyment of future generations. A survey of the region indicated that only 3 percent of the population believed that the bay was safe and accessible, and 60 percent indicated that accessibility was denied because of construction, port operations, and industry. And, 69 percent wanted a more desirable environment and space for people to enjoy. In order to achieve sustainable development, it is necessary to continue development of the coastal mega-infrastructure to sustain economic growth for the growing populace, while being mindful of the need to protect and conserve the natural marine environment.
2. Coastal Mega-Infrastructure Development
The Kansai Region of 20 million inhabitants has a very strong, well developed industrial base,with great potential for future growth. However, to be successful, this potential can only be realized if pursued in a sustainable manner. Some of the most significant recent, present and planned coastal development includes: Port and Rokko Islands; the Port of Osaka and Techno Port expansion; the Port of Kobe and the surrounding coastal zone under restoration from the severe damage by the Hyogo- ken Nanbu earthquake; the new development of the Eco-Port of Kobe by 2010; Kansai and Kobe offshore airports; Wakayama Marina City, and the Marine Corridor Project. These coastal engineering projects are great individual accomplishments; however, to use these new facilities efficiently at their desired capacity, they must be linked together for easy, rapid, and enjoyable access by people and commercial enterprise. Considering all of the possible options, as well as the need to retain the function and natural environment of Osaka Bay, a logical option is the Marine Corridor Project (MARICO), which is designed to provide quick and easy access for the movement of people, goods, utilities, and services between nine designated corridor links (satellite stations). The MARICO planners are very conscious of the environmental implications and have collected information on the baseline environmental characteristics to provide a reference standard for "before and after" comparisons. Based on the available data, MARICO planners are considering ways to improve the present marine environment of Osaka Bay, and perhaps use its circular configuration to incorporate new ideas for circulating and flushing Osaka Bay waters.The Marine Corridor Project is needed to integrate the coastal mega-infrastructure of Osaka Bay to provide safe. rapid and efficient transport of people and goods in. around, and out of the Osaka Bay area. Without such a visionary plan, the coastal infrastructure would stagnate and wither with time. Therefore, it is necessary that strategic planning for Osaka Bay carefully consider the integration of all of the present and planned coastal infrastructure as well as the impact received from the coastal hazards of the marine environment, as well as the impact of development on the environment. It is also very important that all strategic plans seriously considers the public needs of the Osaka Bay Area. These include: a safe, healthy, and accessible coastal marine environment through environmental protection, restoration, and creation; and conservation of the natural marine environment.
3. Coastal Marine Environment
The coastal environment is subject to a variety of coastal hazards both natural and man made, that are manifested on a global, regional, and local scale.The coastal mega infrastructure as well as the marine environment itself is subject to all of these hazards in varying degrees that are site specific. Therefore, these hazards are major considerations in seeking to
