In a decision that has stirred heated debate and drawn international attention, Japan confirmed yesterday, Tuesday, August 22, that it will commence the release of more than 1 million metric tons of treated radioactive water from the crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant into the ocean.
The planned release, scheduled for Thursday, August 24, has been met with intense criticism, particularly from China, and has sparked concerns among neighboring countries.
This announcement follows discussions with Japan's fishing industry and comes a day after the government asserted it had secured a "degree of understanding" from fishing groups regarding the discharge into the Pacific Ocean.
Nevertheless, some fishing communities remain apprehensive, fearing that their livelihoods could be severely impacted due to potential reputational damage.
The initial release will be carried out gradually and meticulously, with additional monitoring in place.
The first phase will involve the discharge of approximately 7,800 cubic meters of water over a span of about 17 days.
Japan asserts that the water release is safe and adheres to international standards.
In July, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations nuclear watchdog, granted approval to the plan, stating that its impact on people and the environment would be minimal.
Region's Response
China's response to the announcement has been remarkably robust, with the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson criticizing the decision as "highly self-centered," lodging an official complaint, while indicating that measures would be taken to protect marine ecosystems, food safety, and public health.
Within a wider framework, China had previously implemented proactive actions concerning Japanese food imports, with China Customs declaring on July 7 a prohibition on importing food items from ten Japanese prefectures, Fukushima among them.
READ MORE: China Bans Food Imports from Japan Over Nuclear Water Release
Hong Kong immediately responded by activating import controls on Japanese seafood, encompassing regions including the capital, Tokyo, and Fukushima.
Macao has also decided to adopt this ban, extending it to various seafood products, including live, frozen, refrigerated, and dried items, as well as sea salt and seaweed.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, South Korea acknowledged the technical and scientific dimensions of Japan's plan while maintaining a nuanced position. While they observed no technical flaws with the plan, they did not offer complete endorsement or support for it either.
Rushing Tourists
Hong Kong media conducted interviews on Tuesday with tourists who were set to depart for Japan from the Hong Kong International Airport, with headlines such as "Japan to Release Nuclear Water on Thursday, But Hong Kong Travel Enthusiasts Remain Undeterred" and "Seize the Chance to Enjoy Sushi."
Hong Kong media reports at Hong Kong International Airport. Sceenshot by That's
Chen, one of the interviewed tourists, shared her thoughts, saying, "I want to savor Japanese seafood for the last time during this trip. It's like making the most of a fleeting opportunity."
The Fukushima water release is bound to continue generating discussions and responses from across the globe. For the lastest update, follow our WeChat official account, ThatsGBA.
[Cover image via foodnavigator-asia.com]
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