September 3, 2012
Akahata editorial (excerpts)
The Noda Cabinet has entered the final stage in compiling a new energy and environment strategy, which is expected to pledge to reduce the country’s dependence on nuclear energy to zero.
Although this move reflects the mounting public call against nuclear power generation, the government is attempting to present the “zero” target as a goal to be achieved at some point in the future without setting an exact deadline. This could lead to justifying the nation’s continued dependence on nuclear power.
After the outbreak of the Fukushima nuclear accident in March 2011, the government announced that it will review its energy strategy, which described nuclear energy as an essential energy source for the nation, and create a new one from scratch.
In light of public opinion, the government has presented three options of reducing nuclear power generation by 2030 to 0%, 15%, or 20-25% of the total electrical supply. In government-sponsored public hearings, opinion polls, and opinions sent to the government in the “public comment” system, the overwhelming majority of respondents have chosen the “zero” option.
In a report related to a new energy strategy, the government admitted, “At least more than 50% of citizens hope for a society without nuclear energy.” The report went on to say, however, “Opinion is divided when it comes to how fast this goal should be achieved.”
The government must sincerely respond to the public will and clearly announce a swift departure from nuclear energy. By doing so, it can accelerate the development of energy conservation technologies and the use of renewable energy.
The Noda Cabinet has entered the final stage in compiling a new energy and environment strategy, which is expected to pledge to reduce the country’s dependence on nuclear energy to zero.
Although this move reflects the mounting public call against nuclear power generation, the government is attempting to present the “zero” target as a goal to be achieved at some point in the future without setting an exact deadline. This could lead to justifying the nation’s continued dependence on nuclear power.
After the outbreak of the Fukushima nuclear accident in March 2011, the government announced that it will review its energy strategy, which described nuclear energy as an essential energy source for the nation, and create a new one from scratch.
In light of public opinion, the government has presented three options of reducing nuclear power generation by 2030 to 0%, 15%, or 20-25% of the total electrical supply. In government-sponsored public hearings, opinion polls, and opinions sent to the government in the “public comment” system, the overwhelming majority of respondents have chosen the “zero” option.
In a report related to a new energy strategy, the government admitted, “At least more than 50% of citizens hope for a society without nuclear energy.” The report went on to say, however, “Opinion is divided when it comes to how fast this goal should be achieved.”
The government must sincerely respond to the public will and clearly announce a swift departure from nuclear energy. By doing so, it can accelerate the development of energy conservation technologies and the use of renewable energy.
