Abstract
This study examined the international legal framework that applies to Japan’s resolution to release nuclear wastewater from the Fukushima Nuclear Facility into the Pacific Ocean during the Summer of 2023. While the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) published a report on July 4, 2023, asserting that Japan’s plans align with safety standards and would result in a minimal radiological impact on people and the environment, concerns over potential pollution of the global marine environment and opposition from neighboring countries persist. Notably, China disputed the IAEA’s findings and imposed a de facto ban on Japanese seafood imports. This incident has raised significant global environmental concerns and legal disputes. This analysis focused on the international norms and regulations governing marine environmental protection and nuclear safety relating to Japan’s decision. Various existing marine ecological protections, nuclear safety conventions, and specific articles were deemed pertinent to the situation. However, the application of these measures remains characterized by ambiguity and uncertainty. Consequently, the study argues for establishing a more effective and authoritative nuclear wastewater governance framework to address the distinct challenges associated with nuclear wastewater management.
Published Version
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