Sustainable Development Utilizing Local Agricultural Resources: A Network Analysis of Interorganizational Collaborations in Tsuruoka, Noto, and Aso in Japan

Abstract

Employing social network analysis, this study quantitatively compares interorganizational collaboration networks in Tsuruoka, Noto, and Aso in Japan. These networks apply innovative strategies and techniques to the use of local agricultural resources. The major findings of this study are the following: (1) Tsuruoka’s and Noto’s networks are characterized by relatively centralized structures. (2) Aso’s network is characterized by a relatively decentralized structure. (3) Organizations that coordinate the various sectors and regions have played an important role in maintaining decentralized networks. Through comparison of the networks, we supply objective information useful for formulating structural change strategies induce sustainable development in Japan.