Fukushima N-wastewater controversy

Source– The post is based on the article “Fukushima N-wastewater controversy” published in “The Hindu” on 25th September 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- International relations. GS3- Science and Technology

News– Recently, the Japanese government revealed its intentions to gradually release over one million tonnes of contaminated water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean.  It has raised a concern among the public, both domestically and internationally.

What are the concerns of the public?

Various methods have been employed to treat the contaminated water. One of them is the Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS), which eliminates 62 types of radioactive materials. However, tritium is not removed during the treatment process.

As per the Japanese government, the concentration of tritium in the treated water does not exceed international standards set by the IAEA. The concentration of tritium in the treated water is six times lower than the World Health Organization’s limit.

The chemical extraction of tritium from wastewater is virtually impossible because tritium is chemically identical to hydrogen.

There is evidence suggesting that even exposure to low levels of radiation can have adverse effects on both human health and the environment.

Tritium is readily absorbed by living organisms and rapidly distributed throughout their bodies via the bloodstream. Moreover, it can cross the placenta. It can lead to developmental issues in babies if ingested by pregnant women.

Releasing the water appears to be the only viable option due to limited space around the Fukushima plant and the potential for leaks. Storing the water elsewhere throughout the country would significantly increase both costs and the risk of leaks.

How is this affecting regional politics?

The Japanese Prime Minister and South Korean President publicly consumed seafood after the wastewater discharge began. This public act aimed to bolster public trust in the water treatment process.

Transparency concerning the treatment and release process has been crucial, especially in Japan’s relations with South Korea.

For both Mr. Kishida and Mr. Yoon, the water discharge presents more of a geopolitical challenge than a health issue. Historical tensions still strain their relations today. However, both leaders have been working to improve relations.

Japanese authorities have engaged with regional counterparts, such as South Korea, China, and Russia, to discuss the wastewater treatment and release plan since 2021.

Why has China adopted a hardline stance?

China’s response to the wastewater issue should be viewed within a broader geopolitical context.

Recent Japan-China relations have been impacted due to China expanding its military presence in the South China Sea. This has fueled nationalist sentiments on both sides, making the wastewater issue significant.

China is also monitoring the deepening relationship between South Korea and Japan. China is uncomfortable with the growing closeness between South Korea and Japan. It aims to exploit the strategic divisions between the two.