Due to its rapid population growth and urban development, the environment of Yokohama in Japan has significantly degraded. In response, substantial efforts have been made to address socio-environmental issues. One such initiative was a programme called G-30. Implemented in 2005, it aimed to reduce 30% of the amount of garbage waste by 2010, in comparison with that of 2001, by promoting 'Recycle, Reduce, and Reuse' (3Rs). Ultimately, the city reduced 43% of its garbage waste during that period. The Japanese government designated the city as one of the Environmental Model Cities in 2008, Environmental Future Cities in 2011 and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Future Cities in 2018, while the World Bank recognized it as one of the Eco2Cities in 2010. A place-based environmental education tool called the eco-picture diary has significantly contributed to the success of the G-30 programme and the designation of the above-stated eco-initiatives. Through documentation research and a series of interviews with stakeholders, the current study examines the eco-picture diary and its potential roles in promoting eco-initiatives, applying the change theory for place-based education. Findings suggest that the eco-picture diary, as a place-based environmental education tool, can promote eco-initiatives by broadening and deepening community social capital.

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This study examines the impact of international fieldwork in developing students’ generic, transferable, life, and soft skills and attributes by comparing reported scores of these skills and attributes through self-evaluation surveys before and after the fieldwork and interviewing students to explore why they think that certain skills and attributes improved while other skills and attributes did not. Findings suggest that the international fieldwork may enhance skills and attributes related to initiative, execution, detecting issues, planning, delivering messages, and flexibility. However, the fieldwork did not seem to enhance skills and attributes to influence others, to listen, to grasp situations, to apply rules, to control stress, and creativity. Possible explanations for certain skills and attributes improvement and stagnation are provided in addition to suggestions for future research.

Numerous garbage dumpsites worldwide have been closed down to address the safety, health and environmental hazards facing waste pickers, such as potential landsides, diseases and pollution. As a result, the environment surrounding the (former) waste pickers may have been safer and cleaner. While the closure of garbage dumpsites may be an act of social justice to protect waste pickers, however, in some cases, the incomes and living standards of former waste pickers who continue to reside at these sites have been aggravated. Drawing on critical theory, and using observations and interviews, this case study examined the post-dumpsite-closure situation of Payatas in the Philippines. This study augments previous research on critical urban and regional studies through the presentation of a meta-critical theory by expanding, critiquing and reconceptualizing critical theory to address the problematic post-dumpsite situation created through the closure of the dumpsite.