Therefore taking effective decisions that have a positive impact on the environment as a whole - local and global, is imperative. Creating collective agreement and opinion reached by the community is important (consensus building) for action; initiating action on decisions taken necessitates the overall understanding of the causes and effects (awareness building), and the active involvement of all members of the community to discuss and debate the issues concerned (review and hearings)

One of the core methods that was adopted for rebuilding the community was 'Jimotogaku' (Community Studies), which is the concept developed by Mr. Tetsuro Yoshimoto, who is the head of an NGO called Jimotogaku Association, as well as an officer of the Environment Section of Minamata City Government. The concept of 'Jimotogaku' essentially puts the community in the driver's seat - the spot for the decision making, to formulate, develop and guide local development in the neighborhood and the city. The core idea that lies under 'Jimotogaku' is how to shift from the excess industrialized / modernized society to the creation of the society where people can coexist with nature, and establish sustainable lifestyles. In order to achieve this at the local level, the capacity of the residents to make appropriate judgment and the ability to take actions need to be fostered. This requires the sufficient understanding by the residents about the local environment, anticipate/expect the results and outcomes/sub-effects that the external pressures will bring about, and prevent problems by creating its own unique life culture. Only after understanding fully the production, consumption, and reproduction cycle existing in the natural environment in their community could residents develop their own action plans to achieve sustainability.

The 'Jimotogaku' is implemented through activities including mapping of natural resources and water flows in a community, researching the culture, history, tradition, and customs of a community, analysis of the lifestyles of the people, production and consumption processes of various products consumed, the treatment and recycling process of wastes generated in a community, environmental education linked closely to the living culture of a community, and organization of citizen's discussion forums where community residents can discuss and share views on their concerns, needs and wishes, as well as exchange views with other sectors, such as the local government.