Technicians at Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant are taking another cautious step toward one of the most challenging operations in the history of nuclear decommissioning. On Tuesday (Aug 19), remote-controlled robots were sent inside a damaged reactor to begin assessing radioactive debris left over from the horrific 2011 tsunami disaster. The plant, hit by one of the world's worst nuclear accidents, still contains around 880 tonnes of highly radioactive material.<h2>Why robots?</h2>As mentioned earlier, the Fukushima nuclear plant, the scene of the worst nuclear accident in history, still contains around 880 tonnes of radioactive material. This leftover material contains dangerously high levels of radiation, and its extraction is a critically dangerous operation and, as per AFP, the "thorniest challenge" of the decommissioning, which is expected to last decades. Since human workers cannot safely enter these areas, robots are at the forefront of the operation.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/peru-s-alien-mummies-mystery-deepens-scientists-say-they-re-human-but-not-entirely-all-you-need-to-know-1755762811360">Peru's 'alien mummies' mystery deepens: Scientists say they’re human…but not entirely - All you need to know</a><h2>Robot dog to the rescue</h2>According to an AFP report citing a Tepco spokesperson, two robots — a dog-like machine called Spot and another known as Packbot — were deployed to measure radiation levels inside the reactor. Both are equipped with dosimeters, while Spot also carries a camera to give technicians a live view of the interior. The data gathered will guide decisions about how to remove the debris safely.Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, Incorporated (TEPCO), the plant's operator, said the exploration is expected to last about a month. Small samples of radioactive material have already been collected in pilot tests, but large-scale extractions are still years away. These samples have been sent to research labs for analysis to inform the next steps.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/history-repeats-japan-s-fukushima-nuclear-plant-evacuated-after-russia-s-8-8-magnitude-mega-quake-nuclear-leak-1753844857602">History repeats? Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant evacuated after Russia’s 8.8 magnitude mega quake</a>Originally, Tepco aimed to begin significant debris removal in the early 2030s, but the schedule has now been pushed back, with the operation expected to start no earlier than 2037. This delay, which was informed last month, has raised doubts about the "ambitious" goal of fully dismantling the plant by 2051, a joint target set by Tepco and the Japanese government.

Technicians at Japan’s Fukushima plant have deployed robots into a damaged reactor to assess radioactive debris from the 2011 disaster. Human entry is unsafe, so dog-like Spot and Packbot will do THIS.

Technicians at Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant are taking another cautious step toward one of the most challenging operations in the history of nuclear decommissioning. On Tuesday (Aug 19), remote-controlled robots were sent inside a damaged reactor to begin assessing radioactive debris left over from the horrific 2011 tsunami disaster. The plant, hit by one of the world's worst nuclear accidents, still contains around 880 tonnes of highly radioactive material. Why robots? As mentioned earlier, the Fukushima nuclear plant, the scene of the worst nuclear accident in history, still contains around 880 tonnes of radioactive material. This leftover material contains dangerously high levels of radiation, and its extraction is a critically dangerous operation and, as per AFP, the "thorniest challenge" of the decommissioning, which is expected to last decades. Since human workers cannot safely enter these areas, robots are at the forefront of the operation. Also read | Peru's 'alien mummies' mystery deepens: Scientists say they’re human…but not entirely - All you need to know Robot dog to the rescue According to an AFP report citing a Tepco spokesperson, two robots — a dog-like machine called Spot and another known as Packbot — were deployed to measure radiation levels inside the reactor. Both are equipped with dosimeters, while Spot also carries a camera to give technicians a live view of the interior. The data gathered will guide decisions about how to remove the debris safely. Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, Incorporated (TEPCO), the plant's operator, said the exploration is expected to last about a month. Small samples of radioactive material have already been collected in pilot tests, but large-scale extractions are still years away. These samples have been sent to research labs for analysis to inform the next steps. Also read | History repeats? Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant evacuated after Russia’s 8.8 magnitude mega quake Originally, Tepco aimed to begin significant debris removal in the early 2030s, but the schedule has now been pushed back, with the operation expected to start no earlier than 2037. This delay, which was informed last month, has raised doubts about the "ambitious" goal of fully dismantling the plant by 2051, a joint target set by Tepco and the Japanese government.

Technicians at Japan’s Fukushima plant have deployed robots into a damaged reactor to assess radioactive debris from the 2011 disaster. Human entry is unsafe, so dog-like Spot and Packbot will do THIS.

Japan sends robots into Fukushima nuclear power plant to tackle radioactive debris from 2011 disaster

Russia's 8.8 magnitude earthquake on Wednesday (Jul 30) triggered an emergency evacuation at the Fukushima nuclear plant in northeast Japan. As per reports, all workers of the stricken nuclear plant were evacuated to avoid a 2011-style meltdown of the facility. "We have evacuated all workers and employees" at the Fukushima Daiichi plant, a spokeswoman for plant operator TEPCO told news agencies, adding that no "abnormality" had been observed.<h2>What happened in 2011?</h2>In 2011, in the aftermath of the Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant in Ōkuma suffered a massive electrical grid failure, and damage was reported at nearly all the power plant's backup energy sources. After the reactors shut down, crews couldn't cool them properly. That failure broke the containment systems and let radioactive material escape into the environment.Japan's Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency later rated the disaster a level seven — the highest on the International Nuclear Event Scale — based on findings from the Japan Nuclear Energy Safety Organization. It remains the most serious nuclear accident since Chernobyl in 1986, which was also classified at level seven.<h2>Fukushima debris removal delayed?</h2>This comes just a day after Tepco announced that a massive operation to remove hundreds of tonnes of radioactive debris from the Fukushima nuclear plant has been delayed until at least 2037. Approximately 880 tonnes of hazardous materials from the 2011 nuclear disaster are still in the power station. Preparation work needed to start the retrieval is expected to take "12 to 15" years from now, official Akira Ono told reporters. This means the earliest they can embark on the removal is now 2037.<h2>Russia's mega earthquake</h2>Russia on Wednesday (Jul 30) suffered a massive 8.7 earthquake which left people shaken and triggered tsunami warnings in the nation, along with Japan and the United States. The epicentre of this strong quake, as per the United States Geological Survey (USGS) was located 133 km southeast of Petropavlovsk‑Kamchatsky in Russia, at a depth of 74 km. The mega-quake, as per the regional seismic monitoring service, was the region's strongest since 1952. It warned that aftershocks of up to 7.5 magnitude were possible. "The strongest earthquake since 1952 has just occurred in the Kamchatka seismic zone ...&nbsp;Given the scale of the event, strong aftershocks with a magnitude of up to 7.5 should be expected," Kamchatka's geophysical service said on Telegram.&nbsp;

"We have evacuated all workers and employees" at the Fukushima Daiichi plant, a spokeswoman for plant operator TEPCO told news agencies, adding that no "abnormality" had been observed.

Russia's 8.8 magnitude earthquake on Wednesday (Jul 30) triggered an emergency evacuation at the Fukushima nuclear plant in northeast Japan. As per reports, all workers of the stricken nuclear plant were evacuated to avoid a 2011-style meltdown of the facility. "We have evacuated all workers and employees" at the Fukushima Daiichi plant, a spokeswoman for plant operator TEPCO told news agencies, adding that no "abnormality" had been observed. What happened in 2011? In 2011, in the aftermath of the Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant in Ōkuma suffered a massive electrical grid failure, and damage was reported at nearly all the power plant's backup energy sources. After the reactors shut down, crews couldn't cool them properly. That failure broke the containment systems and let radioactive material escape into the environment. Japan's Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency later rated the disaster a level seven — the highest on the International Nuclear Event Scale — based on findings from the Japan Nuclear Energy Safety Organization. It remains the most serious nuclear accident since Chernobyl in 1986, which was also classified at level seven. Fukushima debris removal delayed? This comes just a day after Tepco announced that a massive operation to remove hundreds of tonnes of radioactive debris from the Fukushima nuclear plant has been delayed until at least 2037. Approximately 880 tonnes of hazardous materials from the 2011 nuclear disaster are still in the power station. Preparation work needed to start the retrieval is expected to take "12 to 15" years from now, official Akira Ono told reporters. This means the earliest they can embark on the removal is now 2037. Russia's mega earthquake Russia on Wednesday (Jul 30) suffered a massive 8.7 earthquake which left people shaken and triggered tsunami warnings in the nation, along with Japan and the United States. The epicentre of this strong quake, as per the United States Geological Survey (USGS) was located 133 km southeast of Petropavlovsk‑Kamchatsky in Russia, at a depth of 74 km. The mega-quake, as per the regional seismic monitoring service, was the region's strongest since 1952. It warned that aftershocks of up to 7.5 magnitude were possible. "The strongest earthquake since 1952 has just occurred in the Kamchatka seismic zone ... Given the scale of the event, strong aftershocks with a magnitude of up to 7.5 should be expected," Kamchatka's geophysical service said on Telegram.

"We have evacuated all workers and employees" at the Fukushima Daiichi plant, a spokeswoman for plant operator TEPCO told news agencies, adding that no "abnormality" had been observed.

History repeats? Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant evacuated after Russia’s 8.8 magnitude mega quake

Authorities said on Thursday (Dec 14) that a high level of radiation has been detected in the nose of a person working at the Fukushima nuclear plant, raising&nbsp;safety concerns despite&nbsp;the plant being decommissioned.&nbsp;

Previously, China and North Korea raised concerns when Japan started to gradually release wastewater from the wrecked Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean.&nbsp;

Beijing had even announced that it would "completely suspend the import of aquatic products originating in Japan" to "prevent the risk of radioactive contamination of food safety". But Japan rejected all claims, stating that the water is safe.&nbsp;

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The operator Tokyo Electric Power (TEPCO) said Thursday that radioactive materials may have touched the worker's face on Monday when he removed a full-face mask after finishing his work.&nbsp;

TEPCO further said that the employee was not experiencing any adverse health effects and a full body scan showed no internal contamination, but a full analysis will be available next month.&nbsp;

It was the second such incident in three months after four workers were splashed with water containing radioactive materials in October, with two of them hospitalised as a precaution.&nbsp;

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There was an evident apprehension when Japan released treated radioactive water into the sea from its defunct nuclear reactor after the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) approved the plan.&nbsp;

The plant remained useless after a nuclear accident which occurred during the 2011 tsunami, releasing a large quantity of radioactive material.&nbsp;

After the tsunami hit, some of the nuclear facility's reactors went into meltdown as the cooling systems were overwhelmed, causing a nuclear accident — the worst since Chornobyl.&nbsp;

The water was distilled after being contaminated from contact with fuel rods at the reactor. The tanks on the site held about 1.3 million tonnes of radioactive water, which is massive. It is a mixture of groundwater, rain that seeps into the area, and water used for cooling.&nbsp;

<h2>'Great East Japan Earthquake': Here's what happened on March 11, 2011&nbsp;</h2>

Japan was struck by a massive magnitude 9.0 earthquake which was centred in the Pacific Ocean about 80 kilometres east of the city of Sendai.&nbsp;

The quake led to a powerful tsunami. According to the US Geological Survey, it was the largest earthquake ever recorded in Japan and the fourth largest recorded worldwide since 1900.&nbsp;

As per the data released officially, the number of those confirmed dead or listed as missing from the 2011 disaster was about 18,500. Another estimated it to be at least 20,000. Reports have mentioned that the majority of those killed were drowning victims of the tsunami waves.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Authorities said on Thursday (Dec 14) that a high level of radiation has been detected in the nose of a person working at the Fukushima nuclear plant, raising safety concerns despite the plant being decommissioned.

Authorities said on Thursday (Dec 14) that a high level of radiation has been detected in the nose of a person working at the Fukushima nuclear plant, raising safety concerns despite the plant being decommissioned. Previously, China and North Korea raised concerns when Japan started to gradually release wastewater from the wrecked Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean. Beijing had even announced that it would "completely suspend the import of aquatic products originating in Japan" to "prevent the risk of radioactive contamination of food safety". But Japan rejected all claims, stating that the water is safe. Also read: Ukraine village council deputy detonates grenades in meet, 26 injured The operator Tokyo Electric Power (TEPCO) said Thursday that radioactive materials may have touched the worker's face on Monday when he removed a full-face mask after finishing his work. TEPCO further said that the employee was not experiencing any adverse health effects and a full body scan showed no internal contamination, but a full analysis will be available next month. It was the second such incident in three months after four workers were splashed with water containing radioactive materials in October, with two of them hospitalised as a precaution. Also read: Horrific moment as riders left hanging upside down in Japan's rollercoaster There was an evident apprehension when Japan released treated radioactive water into the sea from its defunct nuclear reactor after the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) approved the plan. The plant remained useless after a nuclear accident which occurred during the 2011 tsunami, releasing a large quantity of radioactive material. After the tsunami hit, some of the nuclear facility's reactors went into meltdown as the cooling systems were overwhelmed, causing a nuclear accident — the worst since Chornobyl. The water was distilled after being contaminated from contact with fuel rods at the reactor. The tanks on the site held about 1.3 million tonnes of radioactive water, which is massive. It is a mixture of groundwater, rain that seeps into the area, and water used for cooling. 'Great East Japan Earthquake': Here's what happened on March 11, 2011 Japan was struck by a massive magnitude 9.0 earthquake which was centred in the Pacific Ocean about 80 kilometres east of the city of Sendai. The quake led to a powerful tsunami. According to the US Geological Survey, it was the largest earthquake ever recorded in Japan and the fourth largest recorded worldwide since 1900. As per the data released officially, the number of those confirmed dead or listed as missing from the 2011 disaster was about 18,500. Another estimated it to be at least 20,000. Reports have mentioned that the majority of those killed were drowning victims of the tsunami waves. (With inputs from agencies)

Fukushima nuclear plant: High radiation level detected in nose of a worker

Russia on Monday (Oct 16) suspended all Japanese seafood imports in the aftermath of Tokyo's release of wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant.&nbsp;

Previously, China had suspended the imports, saying that Tokyo has not proved the authenticity and accuracy of the nuclear wastewater data, nor that the ocean discharge of the water is harmless to the marine environment and human health.&nbsp;

China was Japan's biggest market for fish, accounting for more than $500 million worth of exports in 2022.&nbsp;

Japan recently released treated radioactive water into the sea from its defunct nuclear reactor in Fukushima after the International Atomic Energy Agency approved the plan.&nbsp;

A nuclear accident occurred at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant nuclear plant during the 2011 tsunami when a large quantity of radioactive material was released, causing significant human suffering.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-to-expect-from-chinas-belt-and-and-road-forum-in-beijing-647318">What to expect from China's Belt and and Road Forum in Beijing?</a>&nbsp;

After the tsunami hit, some of the nuclear facility's reactors went into meltdown as the cooling systems were overwhelmed, causing a nuclear accident — the worst since Chernobyl.&nbsp;

The water was distilled after being contaminated from contact with fuel rods at the reactor. The tanks on the site now hold about 1.3 million tonnes of radioactive water, which is massive. It is a mixture of groundwater, rain that seeps into the area, and water used for cooling.&nbsp;

On Mar 11, 2011, Japan was struck by a massive magnitude 9.0 earthquake which was centred in the Pacific Ocean about 80 kilometres east of the city of Sendai.&nbsp;

The quake led to a powerful tsunami. According to the US Geological Survey, it was the largest earthquake ever recorded in Japan and the fourth largest recorded worldwide since 1900.&nbsp;

As per the data released officially, the number of those confirmed dead or listed as missing from the 2011 disaster was about 18,500. Another estimated it to be at least 20,000. Reports have mentioned that the majority of those killed were drowning victims of the tsunami waves.&nbsp;

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<h2>What did Russia say?&nbsp;</h2>

Ever since it released the treated water, Japan has faced the wrath of some nations and a number of environmentalists.&nbsp;

Japan has also criticised Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, while Tokyo's relations with Beijing, which has deepened ties with Moscow, have worsened.&nbsp;

As reported by the news agency AFP, Rosselkhoznadzor, Russia's body responsible for regulating agriculture products, said that as a "precautionary measure", it was "joining China's provisional restrictive measures on the import of fish and seafood products from Japan as of October 16, 2023".&nbsp;

It added that the restrictions would remain in place "until the necessary exhaustive information to confirm the safety of seafood produce ... is forthcoming".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia on Monday (Oct 16) suspended all Japanese seafood imports in the aftermath of Tokyo's release of wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant. Previously, China had suspended the imports, saying that Tokyo has not proved the authenticity and accuracy of the nuclear wastewater data, nor that the ocean discharge of the water is harmless to the marine environment and human health.

Russia on Monday (Oct 16) suspended all Japanese seafood imports in the aftermath of Tokyo's release of wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant. Previously, China had suspended the imports, saying that Tokyo has not proved the authenticity and accuracy of the nuclear wastewater data, nor that the ocean discharge of the water is harmless to the marine environment and human health. China was Japan's biggest market for fish, accounting for more than $500 million worth of exports in 2022. Japan recently released treated radioactive water into the sea from its defunct nuclear reactor in Fukushima after the International Atomic Energy Agency approved the plan. A nuclear accident occurred at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant nuclear plant during the 2011 tsunami when a large quantity of radioactive material was released, causing significant human suffering. Also read: What to expect from China's Belt and and Road Forum in Beijing? After the tsunami hit, some of the nuclear facility's reactors went into meltdown as the cooling systems were overwhelmed, causing a nuclear accident — the worst since Chernobyl. The water was distilled after being contaminated from contact with fuel rods at the reactor. The tanks on the site now hold about 1.3 million tonnes of radioactive water, which is massive. It is a mixture of groundwater, rain that seeps into the area, and water used for cooling. On Mar 11, 2011, Japan was struck by a massive magnitude 9.0 earthquake which was centred in the Pacific Ocean about 80 kilometres east of the city of Sendai. The quake led to a powerful tsunami. According to the US Geological Survey, it was the largest earthquake ever recorded in Japan and the fourth largest recorded worldwide since 1900. As per the data released officially, the number of those confirmed dead or listed as missing from the 2011 disaster was about 18,500. Another estimated it to be at least 20,000. Reports have mentioned that the majority of those killed were drowning victims of the tsunami waves. Also read: Who is Daniel Noboa? Ecuador's youngest president-elect What did Russia say? Ever since it released the treated water, Japan has faced the wrath of some nations and a number of environmentalists. Japan has also criticised Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, while Tokyo's relations with Beijing, which has deepened ties with Moscow, have worsened. As reported by the news agency AFP, Rosselkhoznadzor, Russia's body responsible for regulating agriculture products, said that as a "precautionary measure", it was "joining China's provisional restrictive measures on the import of fish and seafood products from Japan as of October 16, 2023". It added that the restrictions would remain in place "until the necessary exhaustive information to confirm the safety of seafood produce ... is forthcoming". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Fukushima plant water release: Russia follows China, suspends all Japanese seafood imports

The wrecked Fukushima nuclear power plant in Japan on Thursday (Oct 5) announced that it has started releasing a second batch of treated radioactive wastewater into the sea after the ending of the first round of discharges smoothly.

Plant operator Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings stated that a pump was activated by the workers to dilute the treated water with huge amounts of seawater, which sends the mixture slowly into the ocean via an underground tunnel.

The release of the first batch of wastewater from the plant started on August 24 and ended on September 11. Amid the first release which continued for 17 days, TEPCO stated that 7,800 tonnes of treated water was discharged from 10 tanks.

In around 1,000 tanks present at the plant, around 1.34 million tonnes of radioactive wastewater gets stored. The water has been accumulating at the plant since the time it was crippled by the tsunami and a massive earthquake in 2011. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-release-second-batch-of-fukushima-nuclear-wastewater-next-week-640741">Japan to release second batch of Fukushima nuclear wastewater next week</a>

In the second round of discharge, TEPCO has been planning to release, into the Pacific Ocean, another batch of 7,800 metric tonnes of treated wastewater over a period of 17 days.&nbsp;

<h2>Discharge of&nbsp;radioactive wastewater 'unavoidable': TEPCO</h2>

TEPCO and the government stated that the wastewater has been treated to reduce radioactive materials to safe levels, and then has been diluted with seawater so that it can be made much safer compared to the international standards.

They stated that they cannot avoid discharging the water into the sea because the tanks will be filled to their capacity by next year and space at the plant will be required for its decommissioning, which is likely to take decades.&nbsp;

The wastewater discharges have been opposed strongly by fishing groups and neighbouring countries, including South Korea, where protest rallies were staged by hundreds of people. All imports of Japanese seafood were banned by China, which badly hurt Japanese seafood exporters.

WATCH |&nbsp;Japan started releasing Fukushima water last month, country says water is safe after being treated

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The government of Japan has established a relief fund to find new markets and decrease the impact of China's ban.

Nuclear authorities, which included the United Nations nuclear watchdog, said that the release of water will have negligible impact on humans and the environment. However, it has angered a few neighbours, especially China.&nbsp;

Junichi Matsumoto, who is heading the water release at TEPCO, on Wednesday during a press conference said that more than 6,000 calls were made to TEPCO from abroad between August 24 to 27.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The wrecked Fukushima nuclear power plant in Japan on Thursday (Oct 5) announced that it has started releasing a second batch of treated radioactive wastewater into the sea after the ending of the first round of discharges smoothly.

The wrecked Fukushima nuclear power plant in Japan on Thursday (Oct 5) announced that it has started releasing a second batch of treated radioactive wastewater into the sea after the ending of the first round of discharges smoothly. Plant operator Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings stated that a pump was activated by the workers to dilute the treated water with huge amounts of seawater, which sends the mixture slowly into the ocean via an underground tunnel. The release of the first batch of wastewater from the plant started on August 24 and ended on September 11. Amid the first release which continued for 17 days, TEPCO stated that 7,800 tonnes of treated water was discharged from 10 tanks. In around 1,000 tanks present at the plant, around 1.34 million tonnes of radioactive wastewater gets stored. The water has been accumulating at the plant since the time it was crippled by the tsunami and a massive earthquake in 2011. ALSO READ | Japan to release second batch of Fukushima nuclear wastewater next week In the second round of discharge, TEPCO has been planning to release, into the Pacific Ocean, another batch of 7,800 metric tonnes of treated wastewater over a period of 17 days. Discharge of radioactive wastewater 'unavoidable': TEPCO TEPCO and the government stated that the wastewater has been treated to reduce radioactive materials to safe levels, and then has been diluted with seawater so that it can be made much safer compared to the international standards. They stated that they cannot avoid discharging the water into the sea because the tanks will be filled to their capacity by next year and space at the plant will be required for its decommissioning, which is likely to take decades. The wastewater discharges have been opposed strongly by fishing groups and neighbouring countries, including South Korea, where protest rallies were staged by hundreds of people. All imports of Japanese seafood were banned by China, which badly hurt Japanese seafood exporters. WATCH | Japan started releasing Fukushima water last month, country says water is safe after being treated The government of Japan has established a relief fund to find new markets and decrease the impact of China's ban. Nuclear authorities, which included the United Nations nuclear watchdog, said that the release of water will have negligible impact on humans and the environment. However, it has angered a few neighbours, especially China. Junichi Matsumoto, who is heading the water release at TEPCO, on Wednesday during a press conference said that more than 6,000 calls were made to TEPCO from abroad between August 24 to 27. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan’s Fukushima nuclear plant begins release of second batch of treated radioactive wastewater

The Japanese government said on Thursday (September 21) that construction workers stole and sold possibly radioactive metal from near the Fukushima nuclear plant. Speaking to the news agency AFP, environment ministry official Kei Osada said that the ministry was informed of the theft by workers from a joint venture conducting the demolition work in late July and was "exchanging information with police."

As per local media, the metals were sold for $6,000. They went missing from a museum being demolished in a special zone around four kilometres from the plant.&nbsp;

Osada said the metal might have been used in the frame of the building. This meant that it was unlikely that these metals were exposed to high levels of radiation when the nuclear accident occurred, the official added. If the radioactivity levels were high, metals from the area must go to an interim storage facility or be properly disposed of. And if the levels were low, the metals could be reused.

However, Osada also said the metals had not been measured for radiation levels. It was also not yet known what volume of metal went missing, where it was now, or if it posed a health risk.

The March 11, 2011, tsunami caused multiple meltdowns at the Fukushima plant. Following extensive decontamination work, numerous areas around the plant have been declared safe for residents. However, radiation levels can still be above normal and the plant is surrounded by a no-go zone.

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The Japanese government said on Thursday (September 21) that construction workers stole and sold possibly radioactive metal from near the Fukushima nuclear plant.

The Japanese government said on Thursday (September 21) that construction workers stole and sold possibly radioactive metal from near the Fukushima nuclear plant. Speaking to the news agency AFP, environment ministry official Kei Osada said that the ministry was informed of the theft by workers from a joint venture conducting the demolition work in late July and was "exchanging information with police." As per local media, the metals were sold for $6,000. They went missing from a museum being demolished in a special zone around four kilometres from the plant. Osada said the metal might have been used in the frame of the building. This meant that it was unlikely that these metals were exposed to high levels of radiation when the nuclear accident occurred, the official added. If the radioactivity levels were high, metals from the area must go to an interim storage facility or be properly disposed of. And if the levels were low, the metals could be reused. However, Osada also said the metals had not been measured for radiation levels. It was also not yet known what volume of metal went missing, where it was now, or if it posed a health risk. The March 11, 2011, tsunami caused multiple meltdowns at the Fukushima plant. Following extensive decontamination work, numerous areas around the plant have been declared safe for residents. However, radiation levels can still be above normal and the plant is surrounded by a no-go zone. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Possibly radioactive metal stolen from near Fukushima nuclear plant: Japan

The Japanese environment ministry said on Sunday (August 27) that tests of seawater near the Fukushima nuclear power plant did not detect any radioactivity. Japan had started releasing water from the plant into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday, sparking protests in the nation and neighbouring countries.

The Japanese environment ministry said on Sunday (August 27) that tests of seawater near the Fukushima nuclear power plant did not detect any radioactivity. Japan had started releasing water from the plant into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday, sparking protests in the nation and neighbouring countries. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the government said that the water is safe after being filtered to remove most radioactive elements except for tritium, a radioactive isotope of hydrogen. The report said the ministry's tests of samples from 11 points near the plant showed concentrations of tritium below the lower limit of detection — 7 to 8 becquerels of tritium per litre. "It would have no adverse impact on human health and the environment," the ministry added. Speaking to Reuters, an official said the ministry would publish test results every week for the next three months at least. Citizens angry about discharge of water The Japanese government's decision to release water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant has angered citizens. Reuters reported that in early August, various organisations mobilised a petition-signing campaign in opposition to the discharge of contaminated water into the sea. As of Sunday, over 60,000 signatures had been collected from different regions across Japan. "The number of signatures on the Internet exceeded 60,000 yesterday, with over 50,000 signatures being added following the Cabinet's decision to move forward with the discharge on Tuesday," local media journalist Fujikura Hidekazu said. Hidekazu asserted that the government was blatantly disregarding the sentiments of residents, warning that the forced discharge would inevitably wreak havoc on vital industries such as agriculture and fisheries. "With the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water, both agriculture and fisheries will be pushed into a further state of crisis. Many fear that Fukushima's fishing industry will never be able to rebound," the journalist added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japanese ministry says seawater radioactivity below limits near Fukushima plant

Japan on Thursday (August 24) began releasing treated wastewater from the crippled Fukushima-Daiich nuclear plant, said TEPCO, the operator of the plant. The discharge will release around 540 Olympic swimming pools' worth of water into the Pacific Ocean.

In 2011, the Fukushima nuclear plant was destroyed after a 9.0 magnitude earthquake triggered a tsunami and caused meltdowns of three of its reactors.

A video broadcast from TEPCO showed the wastewater release had begun.&nbsp;

The live video showed engineers sitting behind computer screens.

"Now, valves near the seawater transport pumps are opening," a TEPCO official said via&nbsp;video link from the site broadcast at the company's Tokyo headquarters.

The nuclear plant and Japanese government have&nbsp;been insisting that the release of wastewater is safe, but the operation has generated strong reaction from countries including China.

The release is a vital step in decommissioning the nuclear plants which saw one of the world's worst nuclear accidents 12 years ago.

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the UN's atomic watchdog, has endorsed the plan of release of wastewater. The monitors from the IAEA were on site for the procedure.

TEPCO workers will take water samples later on Thursday.

<h2>'Like an atomic bomb'</h2>

The release of wastewater has been a controversial topic. Ahead of the release, there was a small protest near the site and about 100 others protested outside TEPCO headquarters in Tokyo.

"It's like dumping an atomic bomb in the ocean. Japan is the first country that was attacked with an atomic bomb in the world, and the prime minister of the country made this decision," said Kenichi Sato, 68, as quoted by Reuters.

More than 10 people have been&nbsp;arrested after they tried&nbsp;entering the Japanese embassy in South Korean capital Seoul to protest against the wastewater release.

China on Thursday slammed Japan's plan as "extremely selfish and irresponsible". Chinese environment ministry has said that it will "track and study" impact of wastewater release on its waters.

Since 2011, TEPCO has collected 1.34 million cubic metres of contaminated water as it cooled down the wrecked reactors.

There are four releases of treated water planned from Thursday until March 2024. First discharge will take about 17 days. In this fiscal year, about 5 trillion becquerels - a measure of radioactivity - of tritium will be released, said TEPCO.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japan on Thursday (August 24) began releasing treated wastewater from the crippled Fukushima-Daiich nuclear plant, said TEPCO, the operator of the plant. The discharge will release around 540 Olympic swimming pools' worth of water into the Pacific Ocean.

Japan on Thursday (August 24) began releasing treated wastewater from the crippled Fukushima-Daiich nuclear plant, said TEPCO, the operator of the plant. The discharge will release around 540 Olympic swimming pools' worth of water into the Pacific Ocean. In 2011, the Fukushima nuclear plant was destroyed after a 9.0 magnitude earthquake triggered a tsunami and caused meltdowns of three of its reactors. A video broadcast from TEPCO showed the wastewater release had begun. The live video showed engineers sitting behind computer screens. "Now, valves near the seawater transport pumps are opening," a TEPCO official said via video link from the site broadcast at the company's Tokyo headquarters. The nuclear plant and Japanese government have been insisting that the release of wastewater is safe, but the operation has generated strong reaction from countries including China. The release is a vital step in decommissioning the nuclear plants which saw one of the world's worst nuclear accidents 12 years ago. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the UN's atomic watchdog, has endorsed the plan of release of wastewater. The monitors from the IAEA were on site for the procedure. TEPCO workers will take water samples later on Thursday. 'Like an atomic bomb' The release of wastewater has been a controversial topic. Ahead of the release, there was a small protest near the site and about 100 others protested outside TEPCO headquarters in Tokyo. "It's like dumping an atomic bomb in the ocean. Japan is the first country that was attacked with an atomic bomb in the world, and the prime minister of the country made this decision," said Kenichi Sato, 68, as quoted by Reuters. More than 10 people have been arrested after they tried entering the Japanese embassy in South Korean capital Seoul to protest against the wastewater release. China on Thursday slammed Japan's plan as "extremely selfish and irresponsible". Chinese environment ministry has said that it will "track and study" impact of wastewater release on its waters. Since 2011, TEPCO has collected 1.34 million cubic metres of contaminated water as it cooled down the wrecked reactors. There are four releases of treated water planned from Thursday until March 2024. First discharge will take about 17 days. In this fiscal year, about 5 trillion becquerels - a measure of radioactivity - of tritium will be released, said TEPCO. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Japan begins releasing wastewater from Fukushima nuclear plant amid fears of sea contamination

Japan's plan to release treated radioactive water into the ocean, led several to protest in south korea's capital. Demonstrators staged a rally in central Seoul, to show their disagreement against the plan. The plan is all set to be implemented on August 24th from the destroyed Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.

Japan Fukushima wastewater release plan: China bans all Japanese seafood imports

Japan began&nbsp;releasing millions of tonnes of treated radioactive water from the tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday (August 24), a move that has already triggered strong opposition from neighbouring countries.

An estimated 1.34 million tonnes of radioactive water— enough to fill 500 Olympic-size pools—has&nbsp;accumulated in the tank at the site since the 2011 tsunami incident.

The water will be released over 30 years after being filtered and diluted.

The Tokyo Electric Power Company (Tepco)—the nuclear plant’s operator—has been designated to execute the plan.

The release of water has started&nbsp;a month after Japan’s nuclear regulator gave the nod to Tepco to start releasing the water, which has been termed “safe” by the Japanese government and the International Atomic Energy Agency amidst fears expressed by neighbouring countries that the water may contaminate food.

<h2>How will contaminated water get discharged?</h2>

The 1.3 million tonnes of radioactive water that is stored in huge tanks on the site has been filtered through Tepco’s advanced liquid processing system (Alps) to remove most radioactive elements except for tritium—an isotope of hydrogen that is difficult to separate from water.

The “treated” water, as Japan has objected to the use of the word “contaminated”, will be diluted with seawater so that the concentration of tritium is well below regulatory-approved levels before being released into the ocean one&nbsp;kilometre from the shoreline via an undersea tunnel.

This practice is common around the world and regulatory authorities support dealing with the Fukushima water in this way.

According to experts, tritium is relatively harmless as its radiation is not strong enough to affect human skin.

When ingested at levels above those in the released water, it can raise cancer risks, a Scientific American article said in 2014.

It is estimated that the water discharge would take decades to complete, with ongoing filtering and dilution, alongside the planned decommissioning of the plant.

<h2>The safety concerns </h2>

Though the Japanese government and the IAEA have asserted that the so-called “treated” water is safe, environmental activists have raised concerns arguing that all the possible impacts have not been studied.

The UN nuclear watchdog, which approved the plan in July, says that Japan is meeting the international standards of discharging the water and reiterated that it would have a “negligible” impact on people and the environment.

On Tuesday&nbsp;(Aug 22), Greenpeace said that the radiological risks have not been fully assessed and that the biological impacts of tritium, carbon-14, strontium-90 and iodine-129 —to be released with the water —"have been ignored”.

But&nbsp;Tepco and Japan have argued that the filtering process will remove strontium-90 and iodine-129, adding that the concentration of carbon-14 in the contaminated water would be far lower than its regulatory standard for discharge.

The government will take "appropriate measures, including immediate suspension of the discharge" if an unusually high concentration&nbsp;of radioactive materials is detected, the Japanese government document said, according to Reuters news agency.

The South Korean government, too, concurred with Japan, saying that its own study conducted recently has indicated that the water release meets international standards and said it respects the IAEA's assessment.

<h2>The opposition</h2>

Apart from Japan’s neighbouring countries, many people, including fishermen in Japan, have expressed opposition fearing that the discharged treated water might affect their livelihoods.

On Tuesday, a crowd of protesters staged a rally outside the prime minister's official residence, urging the government to stop the release.

But the most vocal opposition came from China, which accused Japan of treating the ocean like its "private sewer."

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin reiterated Beijing's objection on Tuesday, adding it would take "necessary measures to safeguard the marine environment, food safety and public health".

Japan is "putting its own self-interest over the long-term well-being of all humankind" with the release of wastewater, Wang said.

Hong Kong said it would "immediately activate" import curbs on some Japanese food products.

Both South Korea and China have already banned fish imports from around Fukushima.

<h2>Hong Kong's ban on Japanese seafood</h2>

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said the release was "irresponsible" and posed "impossible risks to food&nbsp;safety" and risked "irreparable pollution and destruction of the marine environment".

Lee, in a post on his Facebook account, said he had told Environment Secretary Tse Chin-wan and relevant departments to immediately activate import controls to protect food safety and public health.

"There is no timetable at this point about how long the ban will last," Tse told a press conference, adding that a decision would depend on data and information from Japan after the discharge.

The measure covers live, frozen, refrigerated, dried aquatic products, sea salt and seaweed.

Hong Kong is Japan's second-largest market, after mainland China, for agricultural and fisheries exports.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japan began releasing millions of tonnes of treated radioactive water from the tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday (August 24), a move that has already triggered strong opposition from neighbouring countries.

Japan began releasing millions of tonnes of treated radioactive water from the tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday (August 24), a move that has already triggered strong opposition from neighbouring countries. An estimated 1.34 million tonnes of radioactive water— enough to fill 500 Olympic-size pools—has accumulated in the tank at the site since the 2011 tsunami incident. The water will be released over 30 years after being filtered and diluted. The Tokyo Electric Power Company (Tepco)—the nuclear plant’s operator—has been designated to execute the plan. The release of water has started a month after Japan’s nuclear regulator gave the nod to Tepco to start releasing the water, which has been termed “safe” by the Japanese government and the International Atomic Energy Agency amidst fears expressed by neighbouring countries that the water may contaminate food. How will contaminated water get discharged? The 1.3 million tonnes of radioactive water that is stored in huge tanks on the site has been filtered through Tepco’s advanced liquid processing system (Alps) to remove most radioactive elements except for tritium—an isotope of hydrogen that is difficult to separate from water. The “treated” water, as Japan has objected to the use of the word “contaminated”, will be diluted with seawater so that the concentration of tritium is well below regulatory-approved levels before being released into the ocean one kilometre from the shoreline via an undersea tunnel. This practice is common around the world and regulatory authorities support dealing with the Fukushima water in this way. According to experts, tritium is relatively harmless as its radiation is not strong enough to affect human skin. When ingested at levels above those in the released water, it can raise cancer risks, a Scientific American article said in 2014. It is estimated that the water discharge would take decades to complete, with ongoing filtering and dilution, alongside the planned decommissioning of the plant. The safety concerns Though the Japanese government and the IAEA have asserted that the so-called “treated” water is safe, environmental activists have raised concerns arguing that all the possible impacts have not been studied. The UN nuclear watchdog, which approved the plan in July, says that Japan is meeting the international standards of discharging the water and reiterated that it would have a “negligible” impact on people and the environment. On Tuesday (Aug 22), Greenpeace said that the radiological risks have not been fully assessed and that the biological impacts of tritium, carbon-14, strontium-90 and iodine-129 —to be released with the water —"have been ignored”. But Tepco and Japan have argued that the filtering process will remove strontium-90 and iodine-129, adding that the concentration of carbon-14 in the contaminated water would be far lower than its regulatory standard for discharge. The government will take "appropriate measures, including immediate suspension of the discharge" if an unusually high concentration of radioactive materials is detected, the Japanese government document said, according to Reuters news agency. The South Korean government, too, concurred with Japan, saying that its own study conducted recently has indicated that the water release meets international standards and said it respects the IAEA's assessment. The opposition Apart from Japan’s neighbouring countries, many people, including fishermen in Japan, have expressed opposition fearing that the discharged treated water might affect their livelihoods. On Tuesday, a crowd of protesters staged a rally outside the prime minister's official residence, urging the government to stop the release. But the most vocal opposition came from China, which accused Japan of treating the ocean like its "private sewer." Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin reiterated Beijing's objection on Tuesday, adding it would take "necessary measures to safeguard the marine environment, food safety and public health". Japan is "putting its own self-interest over the long-term well-being of all humankind" with the release of wastewater, Wang said. Hong Kong said it would "immediately activate" import curbs on some Japanese food products. Both South Korea and China have already banned fish imports from around Fukushima. Hong Kong's ban on Japanese seafood Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said the release was "irresponsible" and posed "impossible risks to food safety" and risked "irreparable pollution and destruction of the marine environment". Lee, in a post on his Facebook account, said he had told Environment Secretary Tse Chin-wan and relevant departments to immediately activate import controls to protect food safety and public health. "There is no timetable at this point about how long the ban will last," Tse told a press conference, adding that a decision would depend on data and information from Japan after the discharge. The measure covers live, frozen, refrigerated, dried aquatic products, sea salt and seaweed. Hong Kong is Japan's second-largest market, after mainland China, for agricultural and fisheries exports. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | Row over planned release of radioactive water from Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Tuesday (August 22) announced that the release of wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific will start on Thursday (August 24), amid opposition from fishermen and China.&nbsp;

Japan continues to claim that it is safe to slowly release more than 500 Olympic swimming pools' worth of water. United Nations atomic agency has been supporting Japan's viewpoint.&nbsp;

"We will request TEPCO to promptly prepare for the start of oceanic discharge based on the plan approved by the Nuclear Regulation Authority, with discharge expected to be August 24 if weather and sea conditions do not hinder it," said Kishida on Tuesday after a meeting of ministers in Tokyo, which referred to the plant's operator.&nbsp;

Around 18,000 people were killed due to a massive earthquake and tsunami&nbsp;in March 2011, with the&nbsp;Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant also being affected,&nbsp;turning the event into one of the worst-ever atomic disasters in the world.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-pm-kishida-visits-fukushima-plant-to-discuss-timing-for-release-of-treated-radioactive-water-627206">Japanese PM Kishida visits Fukushima plant, to discuss timing for release of treated radioactive water</a>

Since then, 1.34 million tonnes of water, which was used to cool&nbsp;highly radioactive reactors, has been collected by operator TEPCO and mixed with groundwater and rain that has seeped in. TEPCO claimed that the water was filtered and diluted for the removal of all radioactive substances except for&nbsp;tritium, which is below dangerous levels.

<h2>Water to be released at a maximum rate of 500,000 litres per day</h2>

The water will be released from the plant into the ocean off Japan's northeast coast at a maximum rate of 500,000 litres per day.&nbsp;

Environmental pressure group Greenpeace called the filtration process 'flawed' and said that in the coming decades, an "immense" quantity of radioactive waste will be spread into the sea.&nbsp;

A nuclear expert from the University of Adelaide, Tony Hooker while speaking to AFP news agency, dismissed that as "fear-mongering". "Tritium has been released (by nuclear power plants) for decades with no evidential detrimental environmental or health effects," Hooker said.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Japan's Kishida visits Fukushima plant to highlight safety before start of treated water release

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In July, the UN atomic watchdog said that the release would have a "negligible radiological impact on people and the environment".

However, a lot of South Koreans are alarmed at the prospect of water's release from the plant and have been protesting as well as stocking up on sea salt in case there is contamination.

But the government of President Yoon Suk Yeol, taking political risks at home, is aiming at improvising long-frosty relations with Japan and has not objected to the plan.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Tuesday (August 22) announced that the release of wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific will start on Thursday (August 24), amid opposition from fishermen and China.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Tuesday (August 22) announced that the release of wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific will start on Thursday (August 24), amid opposition from fishermen and China. Japan continues to claim that it is safe to slowly release more than 500 Olympic swimming pools' worth of water. United Nations atomic agency has been supporting Japan's viewpoint. "We will request TEPCO to promptly prepare for the start of oceanic discharge based on the plan approved by the Nuclear Regulation Authority, with discharge expected to be August 24 if weather and sea conditions do not hinder it," said Kishida on Tuesday after a meeting of ministers in Tokyo, which referred to the plant's operator. Around 18,000 people were killed due to a massive earthquake and tsunami in March 2011, with the Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant also being affected, turning the event into one of the worst-ever atomic disasters in the world. ALSO READ | Japanese PM Kishida visits Fukushima plant, to discuss timing for release of treated radioactive water Since then, 1.34 million tonnes of water, which was used to cool highly radioactive reactors, has been collected by operator TEPCO and mixed with groundwater and rain that has seeped in. TEPCO claimed that the water was filtered and diluted for the removal of all radioactive substances except for tritium, which is below dangerous levels. Water to be released at a maximum rate of 500,000 litres per day The water will be released from the plant into the ocean off Japan's northeast coast at a maximum rate of 500,000 litres per day. Environmental pressure group Greenpeace called the filtration process 'flawed' and said that in the coming decades, an "immense" quantity of radioactive waste will be spread into the sea. A nuclear expert from the University of Adelaide, Tony Hooker while speaking to AFP news agency, dismissed that as "fear-mongering". "Tritium has been released (by nuclear power plants) for decades with no evidential detrimental environmental or health effects," Hooker said. WATCH | Japan's Kishida visits Fukushima plant to highlight safety before start of treated water release In July, the UN atomic watchdog said that the release would have a "negligible radiological impact on people and the environment". However, a lot of South Koreans are alarmed at the prospect of water's release from the plant and have been protesting as well as stocking up on sea salt in case there is contamination. But the government of President Yoon Suk Yeol, taking political risks at home, is aiming at improvising long-frosty relations with Japan and has not objected to the plan. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant to start releasing wastewater on Thursday

The Japanese Prime Minister has announced that the wastewater released from the damaged Fukushima nuclear plant. Japan says that the discharge of treated radioactive water is safe.

Japan: Fukushima Nuclear plant to begin release of 1.34 metric tonnes of water | WION Dispatch

New Zealand has expressed confidence in the advice of the United Nations nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), regarding Japan's plan to release treated water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean.

On Monday, the nation said it has "full confidence" in the nuclear watchdog's advice.

<h2>What New Zealand said about discharge of treated 'nuclear' water from Fukushima plant</h2>

New Zealand's Foreign Minister, Nanaia Mahuta, met with IAEA director general Rafael Grossi in Auckland to discuss the IAEA's report on the proposed release.

As per AFP, during the meeting, Mahuta commended the IAEA's science-based approach and emphasised the need for meaningful engagement with the Pacific region due to its history with nuclear testing.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fukushima-water-release-iaea-chief-meets-south-korean-lawmakers-amid-protests-613608">Fukushima water release: IAEA chief meets South Korean lawmakers amid protests</a>

In a statement, the minister said: "I reiterated New Zealand's full confidence in the IAEA's advice and commended their science-based approach."

"I also felt it was important to draw attention to the Pacific's traumatic experience with nuclear testing and asked directly that meaningful engagement continues with the Pacific region on the proposed release," she added.

The nation itself has a strong nuclear-free policy and does not have any nuclear power stations.

<h2>What 'advice' did the nuclear watchdog give?</h2>

Last week, the UN nuclear watchdog gave the green light to a years-long project that looks to discharge treated water from the Fukushima plant, which was devastated by an earthquake and tsunami which hit the eastern coast of Japan in 2011.

The IAEA stated that Tokyo's scheme to release accumulated water from the nuclear plant and into the sea over the coming decades would have a "negligible" radiological impact on people and the environment.

As per the agency, the discharge is "consistent with relevant international safety standards" and "the controlled, gradual discharges of the treated water to the sea... would have a negligible radiological impact on people and the environment."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-south-koreans-protest-iaea-chiefs-visit-over-fukushima-water-release-613508">IN PICS | South Koreans protest IAEA chief's visit over Fukushima water release</a>

News agency AFP reports that at the Fukushima nuclear plant, approximately 1.33 million cubic metres of water, including groundwater, rainwater, and cooling water, have accumulated since the 2011 tsunami caused multiple meltdowns. The plant operator treats the water to remove most radioactive elements, except for tritium, and intends to dilute it before discharging it into the ocean over several decades.

<h2>Criticism by other nations</h2>

While New Zealand supports the IAEA's stance, Japan's plan has raised concerns among neighbouring countries. North Korea has criticised the IAEA for supporting the scheme, and China has announced that it will place a ban on certain Japanese food imports. Additionally, public concern has also grown in South Korea.

(With inputs from agencies)

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New Zealand has expressed confidence in the advice of the United Nations nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), regarding Japan's plan to release treated water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean.

New Zealand has expressed confidence in the advice of the United Nations nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), regarding Japan's plan to release treated water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean. On Monday, the nation said it has "full confidence" in the nuclear watchdog's advice. What New Zealand said about discharge of treated 'nuclear' water from Fukushima plant New Zealand's Foreign Minister, Nanaia Mahuta, met with IAEA director general Rafael Grossi in Auckland to discuss the IAEA's report on the proposed release. As per AFP, during the meeting, Mahuta commended the IAEA's science-based approach and emphasised the need for meaningful engagement with the Pacific region due to its history with nuclear testing. Also read | Fukushima water release: IAEA chief meets South Korean lawmakers amid protests In a statement, the minister said: "I reiterated New Zealand's full confidence in the IAEA's advice and commended their science-based approach." "I also felt it was important to draw attention to the Pacific's traumatic experience with nuclear testing and asked directly that meaningful engagement continues with the Pacific region on the proposed release," she added. The nation itself has a strong nuclear-free policy and does not have any nuclear power stations. What 'advice' did the nuclear watchdog give? Last week, the UN nuclear watchdog gave the green light to a years-long project that looks to discharge treated water from the Fukushima plant, which was devastated by an earthquake and tsunami which hit the eastern coast of Japan in 2011. The IAEA stated that Tokyo's scheme to release accumulated water from the nuclear plant and into the sea over the coming decades would have a "negligible" radiological impact on people and the environment. As per the agency, the discharge is "consistent with relevant international safety standards" and "the controlled, gradual discharges of the treated water to the sea... would have a negligible radiological impact on people and the environment." Also read | IN PICS | South Koreans protest IAEA chief's visit over Fukushima water release News agency AFP reports that at the Fukushima nuclear plant, approximately 1.33 million cubic metres of water, including groundwater, rainwater, and cooling water, have accumulated since the 2011 tsunami caused multiple meltdowns. The plant operator treats the water to remove most radioactive elements, except for tritium, and intends to dilute it before discharging it into the ocean over several decades. Criticism by other nations While New Zealand supports the IAEA's stance, Japan's plan has raised concerns among neighbouring countries. North Korea has criticised the IAEA for supporting the scheme, and China has announced that it will place a ban on certain Japanese food imports. Additionally, public concern has also grown in South Korea. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

New Zealand backs UN nuclear watchdog's approval of Fukushima water release

Japan is set to begin pumping out more than a million tonnes of treated water from the destroyed Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant this summer. The water was distilled after being contaminated from contact with fuel rods at the reactor, destroyed in a 2011 earthquake. tanks on the site now hold about 1.3 million tonnes of radioactive water, enough to fill 500 Olympic-sized swimming pools. Here's how Japan plans to deal with the water.

Fukushima nuclear disaster: Japan to pump out about 1.3 mn tonnes of radioactive water | Details

Japan has reached a major milestone in decommissioning the Fukushima nuclear power plant, which was destroyed in 2011 after a massive earthquake triggered a tsunami in the region. The IAEA has said Japan's plans to release the water from the nuclear plant into the ocean would have a negligible impact on the environment. IAEA Chief Rafel Grossi will visit the plant and inaugurate an IAEA office which will monitor the release. as per reports, it is expected to take 30-40 years.

Japan gets IAEA nod to dispose Fukushima nuclear plant's waters in the ocean | WION Climate Tracker

Japan will release 1.25 million tons of treated wastewater contaminated by its Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant into the sea. But the local fishing industry has strongly opposed the move, as have China and South Korea.

Japan to release contaminated Fukushima water into sea

Japan's government on Tuesday approved a plan to release more than one million tonnes of treated water from the stricken Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean, in a controversial decision that follows years of debate.

The move, more than a decade after the nuclear disaster, will deal another blow to the fishing industry in Fukushima, which has opposed such a step for years.

The work to release the water will begin in about two years, the government said, and the whole process is expected to take decades.

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"On the premise of strict compliance with regulatory standards that have been established, we select oceanic release," the government said in a statement after relevant ministers formalised the decision.

Japan's government argues that the release will be safe because the water is processed to remove almost all radioactive elements and will be diluted.

It has support from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which says the release is similar to processes for disposing of wastewater from nuclear plants elsewhere in the world.

Japan's Prime Minister Yoshihide&nbsp;Suga&nbsp;told a ministerial meeting that disposing of the water was an "inevitable task" in the decades-long process of decommissioning the nuclear plant.

He said the release would happen only "after ensuring the safety levels of the water" and alongside measures to "prevent reputational damage".

Around 1.25 million tonnes of water has accumulated in tanks at the nuclear plant, which was crippled after going into meltdown following a tsunami in 2011.

It includes water used to cool the plant, as well as rain and groundwater that seeps in daily.

An extensive pumping and filtration system known as "ALPS (Advanced Liquid Processing System)" extracts tonnes of newly contaminated water each day and filters out most radioactive elements.

But local fishing communities fear releasing the water will undermine years of work to restore confidence in seafood from the region.

"They told us that they wouldn't release the water into the sea without the support of fishermen," Kanji Tachiya, who heads a local fisheries cooperative in Fukushima, told NHK ahead of the announcement.

"We can't back this move to break that promise and release the water into the sea unilaterally."

The decision comes about three months ahead of the postponed Olympic Games to be hosted by Tokyo, with some events planned as close as 60 km (35 miles) from the wrecked plant.

The decision also prompted regional opposition even before it was official, with South Korea's foreign minister on Monday expressing "serious regret".

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian urged Japan to "act in a responsible manner".

"To safeguard international public interests and Chinese people's health and safety, China has expressed grave concern to the Japanese side through the diplomatic channel," Zhao said Monday.

The disposal of contaminated water from the Fukushima Daiichi plant, run by Tokyo Electric Power, has proved a thorny problem for Japan as it pursues a decades-long decommissioning project.

Greenpeace slams decision

Around 140 cubic metres (5,000 cubic feet) of radioactive water was generated by the site every day in 2020 and storage space will run out by summer 2022.

Debate over how to handle the water has dragged on for years, with the government saying it wanted to win support from local communities and secure backing from the IAEA.

A government panel earlier endorsed either diluting the treated water and releasing it into the ocean or releasing it as vapour, and the IAEA says either option is acceptable.

"Releasing into the ocean is done elsewhere. It's not something new. There is no scandal here," IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said last year.

Either method would be "in line with well-established practices all around the world", he added.

Anti-nuclear activist group Greenpeace slammed Japan's government for having "once again failed the people of Fukushima".

"The cabinet's decision failed to protect the environment and neglected the large-scale opposition and concerns of the local Fukushima residents, as well as the neighbouring citizens around Japan," said climate and energy campaigner Kazue Suzuki in a statement.

The ALPS filtration process removes most radioactive elements from the water, but some remain, including tritium.

Experts say the element is only harmful to humans in large doses and with dilution the treated water poses no scientifically detectable risk.

(With inputs froma agencies)

Japan's government on Tuesday approved a plan to release more than one million tonnes of treated water from the stricken Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean, in a controversial decision that follows years of debate.

Japan's government on Tuesday approved a plan to release more than one million tonnes of treated water from the stricken Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean, in a controversial decision that follows years of debate. The move, more than a decade after the nuclear disaster, will deal another blow to the fishing industry in Fukushima, which has opposed such a step for years. The work to release the water will begin in about two years, the government said, and the whole process is expected to take decades. "On the premise of strict compliance with regulatory standards that have been established, we select oceanic release," the government said in a statement after relevant ministers formalised the decision. Japan's government argues that the release will be safe because the water is processed to remove almost all radioactive elements and will be diluted. It has support from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which says the release is similar to processes for disposing of wastewater from nuclear plants elsewhere in the world. Japan's Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga told a ministerial meeting that disposing of the water was an "inevitable task" in the decades-long process of decommissioning the nuclear plant. He said the release would happen only "after ensuring the safety levels of the water" and alongside measures to "prevent reputational damage". Around 1.25 million tonnes of water has accumulated in tanks at the nuclear plant, which was crippled after going into meltdown following a tsunami in 2011. It includes water used to cool the plant, as well as rain and groundwater that seeps in daily. An extensive pumping and filtration system known as "ALPS (Advanced Liquid Processing System)" extracts tonnes of newly contaminated water each day and filters out most radioactive elements. But local fishing communities fear releasing the water will undermine years of work to restore confidence in seafood from the region. "They told us that they wouldn't release the water into the sea without the support of fishermen," Kanji Tachiya, who heads a local fisheries cooperative in Fukushima, told NHK ahead of the announcement. "We can't back this move to break that promise and release the water into the sea unilaterally." The decision comes about three months ahead of the postponed Olympic Games to be hosted by Tokyo, with some events planned as close as 60 km (35 miles) from the wrecked plant. The decision also prompted regional opposition even before it was official, with South Korea's foreign minister on Monday expressing "serious regret". Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian urged Japan to "act in a responsible manner". "To safeguard international public interests and Chinese people's health and safety, China has expressed grave concern to the Japanese side through the diplomatic channel," Zhao said Monday. The disposal of contaminated water from the Fukushima Daiichi plant, run by Tokyo Electric Power, has proved a thorny problem for Japan as it pursues a decades-long decommissioning project. Greenpeace slams decision Around 140 cubic metres (5,000 cubic feet) of radioactive water was generated by the site every day in 2020 and storage space will run out by summer 2022. Debate over how to handle the water has dragged on for years, with the government saying it wanted to win support from local communities and secure backing from the IAEA. A government panel earlier endorsed either diluting the treated water and releasing it into the ocean or releasing it as vapour, and the IAEA says either option is acceptable. "Releasing into the ocean is done elsewhere. It's not something new. There is no scandal here," IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said last year. Either method would be "in line with well-established practices all around the world", he added. Anti-nuclear activist group Greenpeace slammed Japan's government for having "once again failed the people of Fukushima". "The cabinet's decision failed to protect the environment and neglected the large-scale opposition and concerns of the local Fukushima residents, as well as the neighbouring citizens around Japan," said climate and energy campaigner Kazue Suzuki in a statement. The ALPS filtration process removes most radioactive elements from the water, but some remain, including tritium. Experts say the element is only harmful to humans in large doses and with dilution the treated water poses no scientifically detectable risk. (With inputs froma agencies)

Japanese government approves plan to release treated water from Fukushima nuclear reactor into sea

The release of Fukushima's contaminated water can damage human DNA, according to the latest report by a non-governmental organisation&nbsp;Greenpeace.

According to the publication of the report 'Stemming the tide 2020: The reality of the Fukushima radioactive water crisis', contaminated water that will reportedly be released into the sea from the wrecked Fukushima&nbsp;Daiichi nuclear plant&nbsp;contains a radioactive substance that has the potential to damage human DNA, a Greenpeace investigation has said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-release-radioactive-water-from-fukushima-nuclear-plant-into-sea-report-335626">Japan to release radioactive water from Fukushima nuclear plant into sea: Report</a>

The environmental group claims the 1.23 million&nbsp;tonnes of water stored in more than 1,000 tanks at the plant contains “dangerous” levels of the radioactive isotope carbon-14, in addition to quantities of tritium that have already been widely reported.

The publication of the report stemming the tide 2020: the reality of the fukushima radioactive water crisis comes days after japanese media reported that the government was close to giving its approval to release the water into the pacific ocean, despite objections from local fishermen who say the move will destroy their livelihoods.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said on Wednesday that he is aiming to make a speedy decision on the disposal of contaminated water at the tsunami-crippled&nbsp;Fukushima&nbsp;nuclear plant.

"I think we can't hold off making a decision on the policy forever. We will take responsibility as the government to make a decision on how to dispose (the contaminated water) as soon as possible," said Suga.

Suga was speaking at a news conference in Jakarta at the end of his first foreign trip, during which he also visited Vietnam.

While most attention has been focused on tritium,&nbsp;which cannot be removed by the on-site filtration system used by the plant’s operator Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings [TEPCO] – Greenpeace Japan and Greenpeace east Asia said that radioactive carbon contained in the stored water would also be discharged.

Carbon-14 has a half life of 5,370 years and becomes “incorporated into all living matter”, the report said.

“It concentrates in fish at a level thousands of times higher than tritium. Carbon-14 is especially important as a major contributor to collective human radiation dose and has the potential to damage human DNA.”

The release of Fukushima's contaminated water can damage human DNA, according to the latest report by a non-governmental organisation Greenpeace. According to the publication of the report 'Stemming the tide 2020: The reality of the Fukushima radioactive water crisis', contaminated water that will reportedly be released into the sea from the wrecked Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant contains a radioactive substance that has the potential to damage human DNA, a Greenpeace investigation has said.

The release of Fukushima's contaminated water can damage human DNA, according to the latest report by a non-governmental organisation Greenpeace. According to the publication of the report 'Stemming the tide 2020: The reality of the Fukushima radioactive water crisis', contaminated water that will reportedly be released into the sea from the wrecked Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant contains a radioactive substance that has the potential to damage human DNA, a Greenpeace investigation has said. Also read| Japan to release radioactive water from Fukushima nuclear plant into sea: Report The environmental group claims the 1.23 million tonnes of water stored in more than 1,000 tanks at the plant contains “dangerous” levels of the radioactive isotope carbon-14, in addition to quantities of tritium that have already been widely reported. The publication of the report stemming the tide 2020: the reality of the fukushima radioactive water crisis comes days after japanese media reported that the government was close to giving its approval to release the water into the pacific ocean, despite objections from local fishermen who say the move will destroy their livelihoods. Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said on Wednesday that he is aiming to make a speedy decision on the disposal of contaminated water at the tsunami-crippled Fukushima nuclear plant. "I think we can't hold off making a decision on the policy forever. We will take responsibility as the government to make a decision on how to dispose (the contaminated water) as soon as possible," said Suga. Suga was speaking at a news conference in Jakarta at the end of his first foreign trip, during which he also visited Vietnam. While most attention has been focused on tritium, which cannot be removed by the on-site filtration system used by the plant’s operator Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings [TEPCO] – Greenpeace Japan and Greenpeace east Asia said that radioactive carbon contained in the stored water would also be discharged. Carbon-14 has a half life of 5,370 years and becomes “incorporated into all living matter”, the report said. “It concentrates in fish at a level thousands of times higher than tritium. Carbon-14 is especially important as a major contributor to collective human radiation dose and has the potential to damage human DNA.”

Release of Fukushima's contaminated water can damage human DNA

A Tokyo court has ordered the operator of the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant to pay $10 million in fresh damages to residents who fled their homes after the disaster, the plaintiffs&#39; attorney said today.

Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO) was instructed to pay a total of 1.1 billion yen to 318 former residents of the Odaka district in Fukushima, around 20 kilometres from the plant.

The sum is a tenth of what the plaintiffs had demanded, citing the financial hardship and psychological impact they suffered after the March 2011 nuclear disaster in Fukushima that was triggered by a deadly earthquake and tsunami.

TEPCO had already agreed to pay each of the plaintiffs 8.5 million yen, but the ruling requires it to pay an additional 3.3 million yen to each of those affected, according to Isamu Oki, one of the lawyers for the plaintiffs.

Residents are technically free to return to Odaka, which the government has certified as decontaminated, but only a few dozen have gone home because of financial and health concerns, Oki said.

&quot;Especially those with small children are worried... while elderly people are unable to come back without any supporting family,&quot; he added.

Junichiro Hironaka, who heads the legal team representing the residents, said Wednesday that the court&#39;s decision showed it recognised &quot;compensation for a lost hometown&quot;.

But he said the additional damages awarded by the court were insufficient, suggesting the plaintiffs might appeal.

TEPCO said it was reviewing the ruling before deciding how it would proceed.

Around 12,000 people who fled their homes for fear of radiation have filed dozens of lawsuits against the government and TEPCO.

In March 2017, a court in the eastern city of Maebashi ruled that both the government and TEPCO were responsible.

A massive undersea earthquake on March 11, 2011, sent a tsunami barrelling into Japan&#39;s northeast coast, leaving more than 18,000 people dead or missing and sparking the Fukushima crisis, the worst nuclear accident since Chernobyl in 1986.

In June 2017, three former TEPCO executives went on trial, the only people ever to face a criminal court in connection with the disaster. The hearing is continuing.

A Tokyo court has ordered the operator of the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant to pay $10 million in fresh damages to residents who fled their homes after the disaster

A Tokyo court has ordered the operator of the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant to pay $10 million in fresh damages to residents who fled their homes after the disaster, the plaintiffs' attorney said today. Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO) was instructed to pay a total of 1.1 billion yen to 318 former residents of the Odaka district in Fukushima, around 20 kilometres from the plant. The sum is a tenth of what the plaintiffs had demanded, citing the financial hardship and psychological impact they suffered after the March 2011 nuclear disaster in Fukushima that was triggered by a deadly earthquake and tsunami. TEPCO had already agreed to pay each of the plaintiffs 8.5 million yen, but the ruling requires it to pay an additional 3.3 million yen to each of those affected, according to Isamu Oki, one of the lawyers for the plaintiffs. Residents are technically free to return to Odaka, which the government has certified as decontaminated, but only a few dozen have gone home because of financial and health concerns, Oki said. "Especially those with small children are worried... while elderly people are unable to come back without any supporting family," he added. Junichiro Hironaka, who heads the legal team representing the residents, said Wednesday that the court's decision showed it recognised "compensation for a lost hometown". But he said the additional damages awarded by the court were insufficient, suggesting the plaintiffs might appeal. TEPCO said it was reviewing the ruling before deciding how it would proceed. Around 12,000 people who fled their homes for fear of radiation have filed dozens of lawsuits against the government and TEPCO. In March 2017, a court in the eastern city of Maebashi ruled that both the government and TEPCO were responsible. A massive undersea earthquake on March 11, 2011, sent a tsunami barrelling into Japan's northeast coast, leaving more than 18,000 people dead or missing and sparking the Fukushima crisis, the worst nuclear accident since Chernobyl in 1986. In June 2017, three former TEPCO executives went on trial, the only people ever to face a criminal court in connection with the disaster. The hearing is continuing.

Fukushima operator ordered to pay $10 million in new damages

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