Japan's Nuclear Debate May Spur a Renewable Revolution

"TOKYO -- The crisis at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant has spawned antinuclear protests in Tokyo on a scale not seen for decades, raising hopes among activists that Japan's future is geared toward a revolution in renewable energy. Japanese media estimated that 15,000 people calling for immediate closure of all the country's nuclear plants marched through Tokyo's Koenji neighborhood on April 10, and more are expected for a similar demonstration this Saturday.

Although Japan's nuclear crisis has forced several countries to rethink nuclear energy, in Japan, where the industry has long wielded influence over energy policy, the emphasis for now is on improving safety, rather than abolition.

But a growing number of Japanese are concerned about the cost of continued investment in nuclear power and are attempting to push Japan toward replacing nuclear energy with renewables."

Justin McCurry reports for the Christian Science Monitor May 3, 2011.

SEE ALSO:

"Tokyo Electric May Face $25 Billion In Liabilities: Report" (Reuters)

2nd Japanese Nuclear Plant a Time Bomb? (UPI)

"TEPCO To Build Makeshift Levees To Defend Against Tsunami" (Asahi Shimbun)

"Farm Ministry Ready To Set No-Grazing Zone for Cows, Cattle" (Asahi Shimbun)

"German Nuclear Review Throws Up New Problems" (BBC News)


"Fukushima Parents Dish the Dirt in Protest Over Radiation Levels" (Guardian)

"Japanese Plant Starts Installation of Filters" (Wall St. Journal)

"Japan Islanders Oppose Proposed Nuclear Plant, Year After Year" (Los Angeles Times)

"EU Prepares 'Strong Draft' On Nuclear Stress Tests" (Reuters)


"Japan Nuclear Plant Workers Set Up Fans To Cut Radiation, Repair" (Reuters)

Source: Christian Science Monitor, 05/04/2011