VIDEO Fukushima Daiichi melted fuel removal to begin in 2021

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Fukushima Daiichi melted fuel removal to begin in 2021 In a significant development concerning nuclear safety, the Japanese government, alongside Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), announced plans to initiate the removal of melted nuclear fuel from reactor unit 2 at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant in 2021. This crucial task is part of a larger, decades-long effort to decommission the plant following the catastrophic events of March 2011 when a massive earthquake and tsunami triggered meltdowns in three of the facility's reactors and caused hydrogen explosions in two reactor buildings.

Key Highlights from the Announcement:​

• Survey Progress: The survey work on reactor unit 2 has advanced more effectively than on the other units. This progress paved the way for the confirmation that the melted fuel can be safely moved.
• Fuel Removal Process: The removal will begin by extracting small quantities of fuel, gradually increasing the amount as operations become more stable and refined. This step-by-step approach is designed to ensure safety and environmental protection.
• Long-Term Decommissioning Plan: While the timeline for the overall decommissioning remains unchanged, set at 30 to 40 years, local residents will be consulted to finalize the specifics regarding when and how the removal process will take place.
• Government Approval: TEPCO aims to secure government approval for the detailed plan by March next year, reflecting a commitment to transparency and cooperation with stakeholders affected by the plant’s history. This process represents a major step forward in Japan’s efforts to address the long-lasting impacts of the Fukushima disaster, striving to restore safety and confidence in nuclear energy. Community residents’ input and environmental considerations will play significant roles in the unfolding operations, marking a careful and deliberate approach toward remediation. Have you been following the updates on Fukushima? What are your thoughts on the management of nuclear energy post-2011? Feel free to share your insights or any related experiences!