Paying attention to the safety of global edible seaweeds after the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water from Japan

Abstract

Macroalgae play a crucial role as primary producers in the ecosystem. The increasing human demand for macroalgae has led to the development of the macroalgae aquaculture industry, which is seen as a potential solution to future food shortages. However, the Japanese Government's plan to discharge nuclear-contaminated water, which is projected to continue until at least 2053 with a total volume of at least 1.3 million metric tons, poses a significant threat to the macroalgae industry, ecosystems, and human health. Macroalgae can accumulate radionuclides from nuclear-contaminated water, which may then be transferred to other marine organisms or humans through the food chain or web, and the long-term implications of this ‘butterfly effect’ remain uncertain. In principle, international supervision and regulations should govern the management of nuclear waste, further filling the gaps in international law, including all aspects of addressing complaints and prohibiting the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water, to ensure responsible management based on scientific evidence. However, the current Japanese government's determination to proceed with the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water has revealed deficiencies in international legislation and a lack of enforcement power within international regulatory organizations, which demand further improvement. Herein, we call upon phycologists specializing in the utilization of macroalgal resources, marine organisms, and marine ecology to pay further attention to and conduct in-depth investigations into the potential long-term impacts of this event. Regardless, against the backdrop of Japan's ongoing discharge of nuclear-contaminated water, the commitment to advancing the health and stability of the global macroalgae industry and safeguarding the rights of seaweed farmers represents a lengthy but highly significant scientific endeavor.