【Special Issues: The Basic Plan for Establishing a Recycling-Based Society】
Active Partnerships that Aim to Promote Sustainable Lifestyles and Communities
Yuko Sakita
Journalist, Environment consultant
（6-12-7-807 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0023 Japan）


Abstract
Living in the 21st century, we seek methods for the realization of sustainable societies. The expected roles of citizens and their activities in such an era must be largely expanded to include a review of current lifestyles, cooperation between businesses and consumers, the promotion of environmental education at the community level, etc.
In order to make progress in these specific areas, it is important for citizens themselves to participate by creating working relationships with people in various social sectors, developing stronger networks, and working together on many levels.
Throughout Japan, the efforts of the people are gradually showing progress in the creation of “environmentally-friendly communities based on such active partnerships”


Key words: partnership, lifestyle review, environmental education, civilized society, sustainable community