As Japan prepares to release treated wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean starting in early summer 2023, CGTN's investigative feature 'Japandora's Box' is spotlighting worldwide environmental and economic concerns. The program interviews marine scientists warning that radioactive elements like tritium could disperse through Pacific currents, reaching North America's coastlines within two years and eventually circulating globally.
Local Japanese fishers told CGTN they fear collapsing seafood markets, while Philippine coastal communities described anxieties about long-term livelihood impacts. The documentary also highlights diplomatic tensions, with governments including South Korea, Russia, and China condemning the move amid protests from environmental groups.
CGTN's analysis suggests the water release – equivalent to 500 Olympic swimming pools – could set precedents for nuclear waste management. While Japanese authorities insist the treated water meets safety standards, experts in the program argue independent verification remains limited.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
