In the framework of the 14th anniversary of the Fukushima nuclear disaster, Greenpeace has reiterated its position against nuclear energy, describing it as a dangerous, expensive, and incompatible source with the transition towards a renewable and safe energy system.
According to the NGO, nuclear energy has experienced a global decline in electricity generation. Data from the World Nuclear Industry Status Report 2024 highlight that, although five new nuclear reactors with a combined capacity of 5 GW were activated in 2023, another five more powerful reactors, totaling 6 GW, were closed. This resulted in a net reduction of 1 GW in nuclear capacity installed worldwide.
In contrast, renewable energies marked record numbers in 2023 with investments exceeding 623.000 billion dollars, 27 times more than those destined for nuclear energy. The installed capacity of solar energy increased by 73%, while wind energy grew by 51%. In total, 460 GW of new renewable power was installed, generating 50% more electricity than nuclear power plants.
Lessons from the Fukushima disaster and persistent risks
Greenpeace also criticized the Japanese government for removing the goal of reducing dependence on nuclear energy in its energy planning, a goal set after the Fukushima accident.
According to the organization, the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, which had been in operation for over 30 years at the time of the disaster, exemplifies how time increases the risks of accidents and the vulnerability of plants to natural disasters such as earthquakes.
Despite recovery efforts, 14 years after the accident, radiation levels in some reactors remain extremely high, preventing direct inspection. In addition, Greenpeace expressed concern about the decision of the Japanese government and TEPCO to discharge contaminated water with radioactive substances into the ocean, a measure expected to continue until 2051.
Transition to renewable energies
The NGO emphasized that many countries are already moving towards electric systems free of fossil and nuclear fuels. This approach prioritizes energy efficiency and comfort, with a supply supported by renewable energies.
“The Fukushima accident is a reminder that we need safe and sustainable solutions that do not depend on risky technologies like nuclear,” Greenpeace concluded.
What was the Fukushima disaster like?
On March 11, 2011, a magnitude 9 earthquake triggered a tsunami that exceeded the breakwater built to protect the plant. The flooding caused widespread damage to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant, which emitted radiological contamination.
As in most emergencies, the situation continued to evolve. In the days following the tsunami, damage to the reactors increased, leading to more radiation being released into the air and water surrounding the power plant. Evacuation orders for people living in the area changed and expanded.
Surprisingly, no one died from radiation exposure following the incident. However, the disaster had a tragic secondary impact on the people living in the area. Residents living nearby had to be evacuated immediately, and many were permanently relocated, causing significant physical and mental harm to many of them.
Although dangerous radiation and contamination did not spread beyond Japan and there were no deaths from direct radiation exposure, widespread concerns highlighted the need for greater awareness and preparedness for radiation emergencies worldwide.
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