#Japan #Virtual Reality #Mibu Water Center #Watering Group #Mibu

Engaging Young Minds: VR Tours at Mibu Water Treatment Center

On May 8, 2025, Mibu Water Treatment Center, managed by Mizu-ing AM Corporation, part of the Watering Group, participated in an educational initiative by welcoming 31 fourth graders from the local Azukaka Elementary School for a remarkable social studies experience. This event aimed to provide children with insights into the water purification processes in their community and encourage them to consider the importance of maintaining and improving their living environment.

Purpose and Background

The Mibu Water Treatment Center has been hosting local elementary school students annually. The objective is straightforward: to educate children about the water treatment operations that they often overlook in their day-to-day lives. By touring the facility, students learn how household wastewater is treated before it is safely released back into rivers. This invaluable knowledge fosters a sense of gratitude and responsibility toward sustainable living and environmental care among the younger generation.

Mizu-ing AM staff members actively participated in enlightening the students, providing detailed explanations about the wastewater treatment processes and guiding them on-site. The initiative reflects the company's commitment to educational outreach and community support.

Embracing Technology: Virtual Reality in Water Treatment

In line with modern technological advancements, Mizu-ing AM is dedicated to implementing digital solutions, including ICT, AI technologies, and digitalization of site operations. One key feature of this initiative is the Virtual Reality (VR) technology utilized to facilitate a safe and immersive experience of the water treatment facility, traditionally inaccessible to the public.

Instead of using head-mounted displays, the students experienced VR via large screen projections. This innovative approach ensured safety while also being cost-effective and time-efficient. Through this technology, students were able to explore normally prohibitive areas of the facility without any risk, gaining a profound appreciation for the operations conducted therein.

The Day of the Visit

The students were clearly excited to engage with the VR technology. As they eagerly awaited their turn, expressions of enthusiasm filled the room—many impatiently asking, “When can we operate it?” Staff members were met with attentive nods as they explained the facility’s functions. After their hands-on experience, the children took to their worksheets, diligently jotting down what they learned, showcasing their commitment to absorbing the knowledge shared with them.

In addition to the VR experience, the company organized several educational activities, including microscopic observations of microorganisms, water quality experiments, and guided tours of control rooms, all tailored to deepen their understanding of wastewater facilities' significance. The students' engagement was evident, as they asked thoughtful questions like, “How long does it take for the water to be purified?” and “How many microorganisms live in one aeration tank?” Their curiosity illustrated a strong interest, and faculty members reported that the children left feeling fulfilled and informed.

A Commitment to Education

Mizu-ing remains dedicated to supporting the educational endeavors that shape future generations. With innovative programs like this, the company continuously contributes to societal development through environmental awareness and education.

Visit Overview

• - Date: May 8, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:20 PM
• - Participants: 31 fourth-grade students from Azukaka Elementary School
• - Location: Mibu Water Treatment Center, Toyama 5-4-33, Mibu Town, Tochigi Prefecture

About Mizu-ing Group

Mizu-ing Group stands by its mission to continuously contribute to society through water, the essence of life. They provide integrated solutions for water treatment facilities including planning, construction, operations, and management across approximately 300 locations nationwide. Mizu-ing focuses on addressing community challenges and strives toward a sustainable future, ensuring safe and secure water environments.

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