Recently, hundreds of South Koreans took to the streets of Seoul to voice their opposition to Japan’s plan of releasing treated nuclear wastewater from the tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean. The protest comes in the wake of Tokyo’s approval from the UN nuclear watchdog and a positive assessment by South Korea, stating that the water meets international standards. However, the demonstrators are concerned about the potential destruction of marine life and contamination of seafood. With signs reading “Protect the Pacific Ocean” and “Nuclear Power? No Thanks!”, they march through central Seoul, highlighting concerns about the long-term impact on the marine ecosystem.
Choi Kyoungsook, a member of the activist group Korea Radiation Watch, argues that the radioactive substances in the water will eventually lead to the devastation of the marine ecosystem. She emphasizes that the ocean is a shared resource for all nations and mankind, not just the Japanese government. While the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) endorsed Japan’s plan, South Korea conducted its own assessment, asserting that the discharge of water will not have a significant impact on its own ocean areas. Despite these assurances, Japan has faced backlash both domestically and internationally.
Fishing and seafood industry groups in Japan and the wider region are worried about the repercussions on their livelihoods. They fear that consumers will avoid purchasing seafood due to concerns about contamination. Furthermore, international experts, including a Chinese expert cited in China’s state-run Global Times, have criticized the IAEA report as “hasty.” The disabled Fukushima plant currently stores over a million tonnes of treated radioactive water that was initially used to cool the destroyed reactors following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami.
Japan announced its plan to discharge the water into the ocean in 2018, promising careful management and further dilution with seawater before release. This controversial plan will be discussed at an upcoming trilateral summit, where US President Joe Biden will meet with his South Korean counterpart Yoon Suk Yeol and Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. The activists are urging the governments of South Korea, the US, and Japan to consider the environmental consequences for future generations rather than viewing it solely as a political issue.
The ongoing debate surrounding Japan’s Fukushima waste plan highlights the complex challenges of balancing environmental concerns with the demands of the nuclear industry. The decision to release the treated water into the Pacific Ocean has generated significant opposition, particularly in South Korea. While assessments have indicated that the released water meets international standards, activists and experts remain skeptical about the potential impact on marine ecosystems and the fishing industry.
It is crucial for governments and international bodies to thoroughly evaluate the long-term consequences and potential alternatives for managing radioactive waste. Striving for transparency, open dialogue, and scientific research will be essential in addressing the concerns raised by various stakeholders. Proper communication and understanding between nations are imperative to ensure the protection of our oceans and to minimize potential risks to public health and the environment.
