PR strategy for sewage works in Yokohama

On the threshold of raising its sewered population rate to 100 percent, the city of Yokohama is entering a phase of momentous transition in sewage works, to development oriented toward preservation and creation of a pleasant water environment. In the process, it is conducting public relations (PR) activities and public hearings on all aspects of sewage works, including their necessity, scheme, construction, and maintenance, with a view to awakening citizen interest in projects and awareness of the importance of environmental preservation. Because sewage works are managed on the basis of fees collected from the citizens as users, it is particularly important to publicize the financial situation and obtain citizen consent and understanding for scheduled sewage projects. This paper outlines the kind of PR programs conducted by Yokohama for sewage works thus far and its PR strategy for future projects.