Fukushima Nuclear Plant Begins Third Release of Treated Radioactive Wastewater; Local Consumption of Seafood Increases Amid Chinese Import Ban

Japanese consumers boost local fish industry in response to China's seafood ban, as third treated wastewater release from Fukushima nuclear plant proceeds without hiccups; however, concern persists over long-term environmental impact.

The tsunami-damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant has begun its third release of treated and diluted radioactive wastewater into the sea. The plant operator discharged 7,800 tons of treated water in each of the first two batches and plans to release the same amount in this current batch through Nov. 20.
This release of wastewater is seen as unavoidable as the plant's storage tanks are nearly full and decommissioning is necessary. Reports suggest the release will continue for decades, with approximately 1.34 million tons of radioactive wastewater stored in about 1,000 tanks at the plant.
The wastewater releases have not been without controversy. Fishing groups and neighboring countries, including South Korea, have strongly opposed the move, staging protests and banning imports of Japanese seafood. This ban, particularly by China, has had significant impact on Japanese seafood producers and exporters.
To lessen the repercussions of the seafood ban, the Japanese government has established a relief fund to help find new markets for fisheries, and campaigns to promote the consumption of local fish have gained traction. Many consumers are buying Fukushima-region seafood, supporting regional fisheries, and sparking an uptick in local seafood consumption which aids the fragile industry.
The wastewater is treated to remove as much radioactivity as possible and then diluted with seawater before being released. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has concluded that if the release is carried out as planned, it would have a negligible impact on the environment, marine life, and human health, however, some scientists insist that the unprecedented, long-term release should be closely monitored.

South China Morning Post

South China Morning Post