On August 9, China’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations and other international organizations in Vienna voiced its concern regarding Japan’s decision to dispose of Fukushima’s nuclear-contaminated water into the ocean. The stance was outlined in a document titled “Working Document on the Issue of Disposal of Contaminated Water from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station”.
The Chinese delegation underlined the importance of nuclear safety and its global implications, emphasizing that it should not come at the expense of natural environments and human health. They further stressed that peaceful use of nuclear energy is an inalienable right but should align with strict safety standards.
Key points raised by the Chinese delegation questioned Japan’s approach to this sensitive issue. They criticized Japan for not adequately proving the legitimacy of oceanic disposal as the best option amongst other potential solutions. The reliability and long-term effectiveness of Japan’s Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS) used for purifying the contaminated water were also questioned, citing its limitations in removing certain radioactive isotopes.
The delegation expressed doubt about the authenticity and accuracy of Japan’s data on the contaminated water. They further expressed environmental and health concerns, cautioning about potential long-term impacts on marine ecosystems and the potential bioaccumulation of radioactive isotopes in seafood.
The Chinese representatives contended that Japan has not fulfilled its international obligations, and its monitoring arrangements for the oceanic discharge were insufficient. They also argued against equating the discharge of contaminated water from the Fukushima nuclear accident with the controlled release of treated water from normal nuclear plant operations.
In summary, China has called for Japan to halt its ocean discharge plan, engage in transparent and scientific consultations with neighboring countries, and accept strict international supervision. This, China argues, will ensure the safe, sustainable, and responsible disposal of the nuclear-contaminated water.