Mar 14 • 13:00 UTC 🇯🇵 Japan Asahi Shimbun (JP)

Literature survey at Nishino-shima nuclear waste final disposal site and briefing session in Tokyo's Ogasawara Village

A briefing session was held for Ogasawara Village residents regarding a literature survey for a potential nuclear waste disposal site on Nishino-shima, highlighting community concerns over safety and the selection process.

A briefing session took place on the 14th for residents of Ogasawara Village to discuss a literature survey regarding a proposed nuclear waste final disposal site on Nishino-shima. This initiative is part of Japan's efforts to determine suitable locations for high-level radioactive waste generated from nuclear power plants. The event saw participation from 147 villagers, where they expressed various concerns related to safety, the process of waste disposal, and the potential impacts of misinformation on the community. Questions during the session focused on how to manage reputational damage should negative sentiments arise regarding the site.

The Japan Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) along with the Nuclear Waste Management Organization of Japan (NUMO) conducted the briefing, explaining the mechanisms of deep geological disposal more than 300 meters underground and details of the site selection process. Responses from attendees indicated a mix of opinions, with many expressing opposition towards the disposal site, while some called for a more measured approach to judge the site's suitability after the completion of the surveys. A local villager remarked on the resistance towards the initiative but also expressed openness to consider the outcomes of the survey before forming a definitive stance.

Following the meeting, Ogasawara Village Mayor Masashi Shibuya stated he would take into account the various opinions expressed and reflect on the next steps in the process. However, he refrained from committing to any further schedule or announcements, indicating the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the project. The literature survey is part of three selected potential sites and is crucial for determining the fate of nuclear waste disposal in Japan amid growing concerns about safety and environmental impact.

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