Based on our philosophy that the source of a company's activities is its people, we are resolute in making "precedence for personnel" the basis for reform of our 100 year old company. We are driving home our principle of "Two Changes," through which we are revising our personnel system and overhauling our employee education practices. By changing the image of the shipbuilding industry through our public relations activities and stabilization of our employment practices, we are promoting technological development and the passing on of shipbuilding skills, rebuilding our company to excel in its ability to adapt to change.

While water recycling already beginning to be introduced in some areas of Japan, Okinawa Prefecture Southern Agriculture and Forestry Civil Engineering Office is introducing a pilot plant into the Itoman City Purification Center, so as to investigate water recycling for agricultural purposes, leading towards introduction of an Okinawan-type water circulation system. While recycle technologies for waste water have reached a high level, issues remain concerning installation and operating costs. However, given the ripple effect in contributing to the environmental conservation of coral reef islands, water recycling could be a factor in raising the Okinawa brand.

The sail training ship "Nippon Maru" was launched 85 years ago this January 27th, and on April 29th marked the thirtieth anniversary of its opening to the public in Yokohama. While still active the ship was used to train seafarers, but since coming to Yokohama it has continued to contribute to ocean education for youth through its on-board training Ocean Classroom. The Yokohama Port Museum, operating in conjunction with the Nippon Maru, has been carrying out educational outreach programs focusing on the ocean, port, and ships for elementary level students since its opening in 1989.