On February 14, 2022, An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) taskforce started mission in Japan for reviewing controversial planned release of treated water from Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean.

Highlights

• Since the Fukushima nuclear plant went into meltdown after a tsunami in 2011, about a million tonnes of processed water has accumulated in tanks at crippled plant. Storage space at the plant is running out.
• According to Japan, the plan to dilute and release water over several decades is safe because, an extensive pumping and filtration system removes most radioactive elements.
• IAEA has also endorsed the release and says it similar to disposal of wastewater at nuclear plants at other sites.

What are the concerns then?

Plan adopted by the Japan in April 2021, which is expected to start by March 2023, is being questioned by neighbouring countries over environmental and safety concerns. It also generated opposition from local fishing communities as they fear this plan will undermine years of work to restore confidence in their seafood. Furthermore, filtration process removes most radioactive elements from water, however some elements like tritium remain. Tritium is only harmful to humans in large doses.