The Activation of Japan's First Nuclear Reactor Following the Fukushima Disaster

Amid public protests and dissatisfaction in Japan, the government has activated its first nuclear reactor following the environmental and humanitarian disaster of Fukushima in 2011 and the subsequent shutdown of reactors. The startup of this reactor on August 20 signifies the country's return to utilizing nuclear energy. Japan's national news network, NHK, has shown employees of the Kyushu Electric Power Company in the control rooms of the reactor resuming their work. This is the first time in over two years that the use of a nuclear reactor for energy production has been on the agenda in Japan, a country devoid of fossil fuels. Reactors were gradually shut down following the Fukushima disaster. The No. 1 reactor of Kyushu at the Sendai facility, which has now started operations, had been offline since 2011. This development also indicates that Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, despite public opposition and protests in the country, is persisting in his nuclear ambitions and has begun their implementation. In recent weeks, Tokyo, a city where public protests are not common, has witnessed relatively widespread protests against Abe's nuclear goals and plans. Various groups of Japanese citizens have participated in these protests, including former Prime Minister Naoto Kan, who was in office during the Fukushima disaster and has since become one of the most prominent opponents of nuclear energy. Many protesters are concerned about a similar disaster, like the one that occurred after the devastating earthquake and tsunami in Fukushima. On the other hand, the Prime Minister has reiterated the necessity of using nuclear energy to 'reduce energy costs' or 'revive the economy.' Protests in Tokyo have mainly taken place around the National Diet building in the city center. Energy companies have also pressured to resume their activities in recent years. Nevertheless, the future of nuclear power plants is not very clear. The Japan Times highlights legal, political, or regulatory challenges facing the revival of nuclear power plants. Meanwhile, recent polls in Japan indicate a decline in the popularity of Shinzo Abe's cabinet.