The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) released its first comprehensive report on the discharge of treated water from the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant. The report, issued on January 30th, concluded that the discharge is "consistent with international safety standards."
The IAEA's task force, which reviewed the safety of Japan's discharge into the ocean, reaffirmed the findings of its earlier report issued in July 2023. That report had determined that the planned discharge would have a minimal radiological impact on humans and the environment.
The latest report was based on assessments conducted by an inspection team of experts from various countries who visited Japan in October 2023. The team met with Japanese authorities, the operator of the nuclear plant, and conducted on-site inspections.
The report found that the facilities related to the discharge are installed and operating in compliance with international safety standards. The IAEA emphasized the importance of regular monitoring of radioactive substances in seawater and fish by the operator and the Japanese government.
The IAEA also highlighted the significance of its own investigations, which corroborate the data provided by Japan, in enhancing the credibility of the data. The agency will continue to monitor the discharge regularly, with the next review scheduled for this spring.