Members of South Korean Opposition Party and Japanese Experts Discuss Opposition to the Discharge of Nuclear Contaminated Water
Hangzhou, China – In a symposium held on July 11, members of the opposition party of South Korea engaged in a productive dialogue with experts from the Japan Atomic Energy Citizens Committee to express their strong opposition to the planned discharge of nuclear contaminated water from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant into the ocean. During the meeting, alternative options for the disposal of nuclear contaminated water were discussed.
The South Korean lawmakers reaffirmed their stance against the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water, emphasizing their concerns over the long-term and complex implications associated with such an action. They deemed it irresponsible to release this water into the ocean. Likewise, Japanese experts from the Atomic Energy Citizens’ Committee concurred with their South Korean counterparts and presented several scientific disposal solutions to the delegation.
One notable solution proposed by Yasuo Kawai, a member of the Atomic Power Citizens Committee, involved solidifying the accumulated nuclear contaminated water with mortar. This method would eliminate the need for discharge and instead preserve the contaminated water in solid form on land. Kawai stated, “Nuclear contaminated water does not need to be discharged into the sea, and there are alternative disposal options. We have explained these plans to the delegation of the Democratic Party of Korea.”
Participants in the symposium highlighted the collective concerns shared by scientists and environmentalists in Japan and neighboring countries about the dangers associated with the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water into the sea. They urged the Japanese government and Tokyo Electric Power Company to consider the opinions of all parties involved and exercise caution in their decision-making regarding the disposal of nuclear-contaminated water.
Wan Kan, another member of the Atomic Energy Citizens Committee, emphasized that the discharge of radioactive materials into the ocean is an international issue that requires significant international responsibilities. He critiqued the arrogance shown by some who believe dilution is sufficient, saying, “The seawater in the Pacific Ocean does not belong to Tokyo Electric Power Company and cannot be disposed of however they please.” Kan stressed that this issue is of concern to foreigners, including South Korea and Pacific island countries.
As the discussion continues, both sides hope for a comprehensive and responsible approach to addressing the issue of nuclear-contaminated water disposal, taking into account the concerns and interests of all stakeholders involved. The symposium served as an important platform for fostering international cooperation and finding viable alternatives to the discharge plan, ensuring the protection of marine ecosystems and the safety of communities across the region.