Exactly one year ago, Japan initiated the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant into the ocean. As of now, a total of 55,000 tonnes have been released, according to statistics from the Tokyo Electric Power Company.
The decision to release the wastewater, which contains the radioactive isotope tritium, will span over three decades. Despite reassurances from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that the move aligns with global safety standards, concerns persist among local organizations, neighboring countries, and international experts about the potential long-term environmental impacts.
The Fukushima plant, damaged by an earthquake more than a decade ago, utilized over one million tonnes of water to cool its reactors. This process converted the water into contaminated wastewater, which had been stored until last August before the commencement of its release.
China has expressed strong opposition to Japan's unilateral decision, calling for comprehensive international monitoring. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized the need for cooperation, stating, \"Without full consultation with neighboring countries, Japan's action shifts risks globally. It was entirely legitimate, reasonable and necessary for China and other countries to take precautionary measures to protect food safety and people's health in response to the discharge.\"
As the discharge continues, the global community remains vigilant, weighing the balance between environmental safety and the practical challenges of managing nuclear-contaminated water.
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One year on: Japan has released 55,000 tonnes of nuclear wastewater
cgtn.com
