Majority in Japan backs nuclear power for first time since Fukushima (japantimes.co.jp)

Article summary

A recent poll in Japan shows that a majority of the population now supports restarting idled nuclear reactors, marking a shift in public opinion since the Fukushima disaster in 2011. The change in opinion is attributed to surging power prices and warnings of electricity shortages. Japan's 2030 energy goals require nearly all of its nuclear reactors to be back online. The restarts face hurdles, including getting local government approval and a formal safety nod from the national regulator.

Main themes

• Nuclear Energy
• Renewable Energy
• Climate Change
• Energy Policy
• Proliferation Risks
• Environmental Impact

What commenters say

• Nuclear power is a viable and necessary component of a comprehensive energy strategy to mitigate climate change.
• The term 'renewable' is misapplied to nuclear energy, as it requires extraction and processing of uranium.
• A combination of solar, wind, nuclear, and other energy sources is the most effective way to meet increasing energy demands while minimizing environmental impact.
• The environmental benefits of nuclear energy outweigh the risks, including the risk of nuclear proliferation.
• Hydroelectric power is not as environmentally friendly as commonly thought, due to methane production and ecological disruption.
• The distinction between 'renewable' and 'non-renewable' energy sources is not always clear-cut, and different sources have different trade-offs.
• Proliferation of nuclear technology is a legitimate concern, but it should not hinder the development of nuclear energy.
• The threat of nuclear war is a more pressing concern than climate change, and efforts to prevent proliferation are crucial.