Trends in sustainable water supply systems and society development with a declining population

Abstract

Objective: One of the major challenges for small-scale water supply systems and community water systems is the maintenance of water supply services, due to an aging and decreasing population, the aging of facilities, and other factors. This paper outlines a variety of attempts for community development in various areas in Japan, with the aim of contributing to reforms of systems for sustainability and ensuring hygiene.

Methods: The research team collected many case studies, and conducted a questionnaire survey of local governments (prefectures, cities, and special wards) throughout Japan. In the questionnaire, participants were asked questions regarding issues for ensuring the safety of the water supply and sustainable maintenance.

Results: Based on the questionnaire, cooperation among prefectures, neighboring municipalities, and residents has proven successful, and is further needed in other areas. Regarding future cooperation, 198 municipalities were interested in building partnerships with prefectures and neighboring municipalities, followed by 88 municipalities that were interested in taking an online learning course. Many others expressed a desire for on-site activities, on-site surveys, lectures, and consultation meetings.

Conclusion: There were also many attempts to conduct cooperation regarding a model for social utility creation, through the formation of a mutual aid network centered on small-scale water supplies. The sharing of common information would be effective in enhancing the sustainability of small-scale water supplies.