Paper
James M. Acton, Ankit Panda
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Source: Getty
In The Media
Radiation Leak Fears Rise in Japan
While it is becoming increasingly difficult for the Japanese to contain the smaller amounts of radiation escaping from the nuclear energy plants damaged by the earthquake and tsunami, a catastrophic release of radiation remains extremely unlikely.
Published on Mar 15, 2011
Source: CBS
Speaking on CBS’ The Early Show, Carnegie's James Acton addressed the situation in Japanese nuclear reactors damaged by the recent earthquake and tsunami. He acknowledged that the past 24 hours have been particularly bad. Ways for radiation to leak out into the environment have increased following the explosion within the containment building surrounding unit 2 of the plant. Similarly, the fact that spent fuel rods have caught fire also increases the opportunity for radiation to leak.
Acton stated that a catastrophic release of radiation, similar to the tragedy at Chernobyl, is extremely unlikely. However, it is becoming increasingly difficult to contain the smaller releases of radiation that are occurring, which are still quite serious.
Ultimately, Acton said, there are no good solutions to the situation currently facing the Japanese government. They are facing extraordinary challenges trying to respond to the earthquake, the tsunami, and the problems in nuclear energy plants.
About the Author
James M. Acton
Jessica T. Mathews Chair, Co-director, Nuclear Policy Program
Acton holds the Jessica T. Mathews Chair and is co-director of the Nuclear Policy Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.
- Nuclear Weapons and the Future of American Power
- The Latest Iran Deal Ignores the Lessons of the PastCommentary
James M. Acton
Recent Work
Carnegie does not take institutional positions on public policy issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of Carnegie, its staff, or its trustees.
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