Anxiety is increasing among neighboring countries of Japan as the country plans to release treated wastewater from the damaged Fukushima nuclear power plant. This has led to calls for boycotting Japanese exports, with social media campaigns urging consumers to avoid Japanese products, including seafood and cosmetics. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has conducted a two-year review and determined that Japan's plan for the release of wastewater would have minimal environmental impact. However, China has criticized the IAEA's report, stating that it "failed to fully reflect views from experts." Hong Kong authorities have expressed concerns about the impact on food safety and plan to impose restrictions on seafood from high-risk areas. While some experts dismiss these fears as propaganda, there are calls for alternative disposal methods to be considered. South Korea has endorsed the safety of Japan's wastewater release plan, but citizens have expressed skepticism and have held protests against the discharge. The IAEA has stated that it will establish a permanent office in Fukushima to monitor the discharge process for the next three decades. However, South Korean politicians criticize the IAEA's review, arguing that it neglects long-term environmental and health impacts and sets a dangerous precedent. The Pacific Islands Forum has also opposed the water release due to concerns about the marine environment and public health.
Sun, 09 Jul 2023 01:15:09 GMT | ABC News