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Japan will begin releasing Fukushima nuclear plant wastewater into the Pacific Ocean on August 24, if weather permits, as announced by Prime Minister Fumio Kishida after discussions with relevant ministries.
Both the Japanese government and the plant's operator, Tokyo Electric Power (TEPCO), have asserted that the operation is deemed entirely safe. "I anticipate the water release to commence on August 24, contingent on suitable weather conditions," Kishida affirmed.
This decision has garnered the endorsement of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which confirmed in July that the discharge of water into the sea would have minimal radiological implications for both the environment and people.
Fukushima nuclear power plant
The move is crucial to the plan to decommission the Fukushima nuclear power plant, which was severely damaged in a 2011 earthquake and tsunami.
Since then, the facility has been grappling with storing contaminated water, including that which was employed to cool the compromised reactors, and the runoff generated from rainwater seepage, which has accumulated over the past twelve years. These waters have been stored in on-site tanks and subjected to multiple treatment processes aimed at mitigating radioactivity. Presently, the water contains traces of tritium, a radioactive component, and other residual elements at levels considered non-hazardous as per the guidelines of the IAEA.
Although the storage approach has proven effective thus far, the tanks have now nearly reached their maximum capacity. As of the end of July, approximately 1.34 million tons of treated water had been amassed, approaching 98% of the tanks' limit.
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In light of this situation, the Japanese government has been compelled to explore alternative options, including the oceanic discharge. This choice has been defended on scientific grounds and, according to a local survey by 'FNN,' is supported by 56% of the nation's populace.
Hiroko Hashimoto, an NGO worker, remarked, "The IAEA and many other countries have stated it's safe, so I believe it is. However, the fishing community faces numerous challenges, and the Japanese government needs to work to convince them."
Nevertheless, a significant portion of the population, 37%, opposes this measure. This stance is particularly prominent among Japanese fishermen and neighboring nations that share marine borders with Japan.
Public Backlash and International Repercussions
Despite the scientific consensus, the Japanese government's attempts to gain global acceptance for their plan have encountered resistance. The local fishing industry, especially those in Fukushima, vehemently rejects the initiative. Concerns abound that this move could further damage their already fragile reputation and impact sales, still recovering from the 2011 nuclear catastrophe.
Expressing this sentiment, the Japan Fishermen's Federation asserted, "The fishermen's sole wish is to be able to resume fishing safely, as was the case prior to the incident."
In sync with these concerns, hundreds gathered outside the Japanese Parliament on August 22 to voice their dissent against the plan. Greenpeace, a prominent anti-nuclear and pro-environmental NGO, participated in the demonstration, stating that the initiative disregards people's concerns, including those of the fishermen, and violates international maritime law.
Neighboring countries, especially China, have also expressed discontent with Japan's decision. China has even imposed restrictions on the import of Japanese seafood, shellfish, sea salt, and seaweed. Similar measures were adopted by Hong Kong.
TEPCO to release treated Fukushima water
China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Wang Wenbin, condemned the move, stating, "This is an incredibly self-serving measure. China will take all necessary steps to safeguard marine ecology, food safety, and public health."
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Meanwhile, South Korea's response has been more tempered. While the government expressed confidence in the scientific foundation of the plan, they stopped short of offering full-fledged support.
With varying degrees of acceptance, TEPCO and the Japanese government intend to release 7,800 tons of treated water over 17 days, starting on August 24. The company's goal is to discharge a total of 31,200 tons by March 2024, effectively emptying 10 tanks on-site. The entire process is projected to span decades.
Following the initial release, comprehensive tests will be conducted on seawater and marine life to assess potential impacts. The results of these tests will be accessible on the Ministry of Agriculture's website, and the Japanese government has committed to addressing any environmental or health-related concerns that may arise.
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