The operator of Fukushima — Tokyo Electric Power Company — has just confessed in a report that its post-tsunami nuclear crisis was totally avoidable. Ugh.
The company said it was aware that such a natural disaster could have grave consequences, but it kept the known risks quiet for the sake of its reputation, political position, and finances. So what they’re saying is, the worst nuclear crisis in recent history was not exactly a surprise. Ironically enough, the report admits that TEPCO thought the plant would be required to shut down to make it safer. And sure enough, it was shuttered. But at that point it was too late.
Now Japan will spend decades cleaning up the fallout from the reactor — dealing with the ensuing health problems of those unlucky enough to be downrange and a sea full of fish soaked in radiation. Too bad it didn’t have to happen at all. [Business Insider]