background image

Fukushima: China accused of hypocrisy over its own release of wastewater from nuclear plants

author image

By illuminem briefings

· 2 min read


illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on The Guardian or enjoy below

🗞️ Driving the news: Following the release of 1 million tonnes of radioactive water from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, China has instituted a ban on all seafood imports from Japan, sparking accusations of hypocrisy and manipulation of anti-Japanese sentiment

🔭 The context: Tokyo Electric Power (Tepco) initiated the discharge process, which will take around 30 years, under the approval of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Japanese government
• Despite rapid tests showing radioactivity levels within safe limits, China criticized the move, branding it as “selfish and irresponsible.”

🌎 Why does it matter for the planet: The decision carries implications for global trade and environmental policy, particularly as several experts highlight that China's own nuclear plants release wastewater with higher tritium levels
• The debate centers around whether the wastewater from a nuclear disaster is fundamentally different from those from standard nuclear operations

⏭️ What's next: Tensions between China and Japan rise, with the former's fishmongers lamenting empty shelves due to halted Japanese imports
• Nationalist sentiments have surged in China, with boycotts of Japanese products and negative sentiments against Japan being amplified on social platforms

💬 One quote: “The release of currently filtered cooling water containing tritium atoms from the Fukushima plant will not cause physically detrimental effects.” (Dr. David Krofcheck,  Professor at the University of Auckland)

📈 One stat: After the water discharge, tests showed radioactivity levels below 1,500 becquerels per litre, with the safety standard set at 60,000 becquerels a litre

Click for more news covering the latest on energy

Did you enjoy this illuminem voice? Support us by sharing this article!
author photo

About the author

illuminem's editorial team, providing you with concise summaries of the most important sustainability news of the day. Follow us on Linkedin, Twitter​ & Instagram

Other illuminem Voices


Related Posts


You cannot miss it!

Weekly. Free. Your Top 10 Sustainability & Energy Posts.

You can unsubscribe at any time (read our privacy policy)