Fukushima Nuclear Plant to Release Nuclear Wastewater into the Sea

The recent decision to release treated Fukushima nuclear wastewater into the sea, beginning on August 24, has once again sparked concerns regarding the safety of seafood consumption. With this development, there is a great need for ongoing monitoring to ensure the removal of radioactive elements like strontium-90 and cesium-137, both of which carry carcinogenic risks, during the treatment process. The public must exercise caution when consuming deep-sea large fish due to the risk of methylmercury poisoning, which can damage the central nervous system and lacks a known antidote.

Japanese authorities have announced that the wastewater, treated with the Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS), will be discharged into the sea with all radioactive substances removed, except for tritium, which remains at concentrations below 1,500 becquerels per liter. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has endorsed Japan’s plan, asserting its compliance with international standards. Nevertheless, concerns persist among the public regarding potentially harmful substances in the discharged wastewater.

Tritium, in theory, poses minimal risk when present at concentrations below 1,500 becquerels per liter, as it is commonly found in the environment and does not significantly penetrate the human body. However, concerns revolve around the possible presence of strontium-90 and cesium-137, given their longer half-lives of 29 and 30 years, respectively, and the fact that only 12 years have elapsed since the nuclear disaster. Continuous monitoring is essential to determine whether these pollutants exceed established safety standards following the wastewater discharge.

The consequences of strontium-90 and cesium-137 entering the human body may be severe. Cesium, chemically similar to potassium, has a propensity to accumulate in muscles, soft tissues, and organs, elevating the risk of various cancers. Strontium, structurally akin to calcium, readily accumulates in bones, increasing the risk of bone cancer and leukemia.

Aside from nuclear radiation, you should be cautious about heavy metal contamination, particularly methylmercury, when consuming seafood, especially deep-sea large fish like tuna, shark, and swordfish. These long-lived fish accumulate substantial amounts of methylmercury over their years in the ocean. Methylmercury can impair the central nervous system and pose risks to pregnant women and infants, potentially diminishing a child’s IQ by up to 1.5 points, as observed in a U.S. study.