The serene shores of a Japanese beach provided the backdrop as a duo, clad in protective gear, demonstrated the proper utilization of a blue bucket, transferring liquid into sizable plastic containers for subsequent radiation testing. This ritual enacted by a group committed to monitoring radiation levels in food and seawater reflects their apprehension regarding Japan’s intention to release treated radioactive water into the ocean near the Fukushima nuclear plant. Their fears are rooted in the potential rekindling of health anxieties reminiscent of the catastrophic events of 2011.
“At great lengths, the people of Fukushima have endured the risks over the past 12 years, ultimately witnessing a decline in radiation levels,” emphasized Ai Kimura, the director of Mothers’ Radiation Lab Fukushima, also recognized as Tarachine, a nonprofit organization.
“However, if radioactive substances are once again introduced into the ocean, it threatens to resurrect the heart-wrenching tragedy of 12 years ago,” Kimura cautioned, her voice resonating from the lab located in Iwaki city, a mere 50 km (30 miles) south of the nuclear power facility.
This summer, Japan is poised to initiate the discharge of over a million tons of water into the Pacific from the tsunami-ravaged power plant. Yet, the specific date of implementation remains undisclosed. Although both the government and international nuclear watchdogs assert the safety of this endeavor, the plan has evoked deep concerns among neighboring countries, most notably China, and has sent ripples through the regional fisheries sector.
Kimura, who found her purpose after losing her job in the school lunch program following the disaster, joined the group in 2014, determined to acquire the skills to measure radiation levels. Her motivation stemmed from her desire to safeguard her teenage daughters, as well as others in the community.
Presently, she emphasizes the necessity for an enhanced dialogue encompassing the government, Tokyo Electric Power, the operator of the plant (9501.T), and citizens, fishermen, and other stakeholders. This dialogue, Kimura contends, is crucial to alleviate apprehensions tied to safety and other concerns.
“The impact of releasing materials into the boundless ocean, irreversible by nature, extends beyond Fukushima or even Japan – it assumes global significance,” Kimura emphasized.
Japanese authorities assert that the water has undergone thorough filtration, effectively eliminating most radioactive elements except for tritium, a hydrogen isotope challenging to extract from water. The concentration of tritium in the released water will be well below internationally accepted levels.
Kimura’s group remains steadfast in its resolve to persist in their activities once the release commences.
“Our commitment to furnish data endures, empowering parents to make informed decisions and affording children the opportunity, as they grow, to determine whether consuming fish from Fukushima or engaging in sea activities is prudent,” Kimura concluded.
