Government Decides to Conduct Literature Survey on Minamitorishima — First National Initiative on HLW Geological Disposal

This decision is notable in that, unlike the previous framework—under which municipalities applied voluntarily—the initiative was advanced through a proposal made by the national government under its own responsibility. The government submitted its request to the village on March 3, followed by a series of discussions, including explanatory meetings held on Chichijima and Hahajima.

On April 20, Mayor Shibuya submitted a written response reflecting a range of views within the community, stating that “the national government should take responsibility and make the decision.” At a press conference, Minister AKAZAWA explained that the final decision was made after “giving serious consideration” to these local views.

The literature survey represents the initial stage of site selection, in which existing data on geology and subsurface conditions are analyzed to assess the suitability of the site. It does not involve on-site drilling or other fieldwork.

YAMAGUCHI Akira, President of Nuclear Waste Management Organization of Japan, commented on the same day that “final disposal is a critical issue that must be resolved by Japanese society as a whole,” expressing appreciation for the understanding and discussions within Ogasawara Village. He added that NUMO would work closely with the government to address local requests while continuing efforts to foster public understanding.

TSUTSUI Yoshinobu, Chairman of the Japan Business Federation (Keidanren), also issued a statement welcoming the government’s decision. He emphasized that “final disposal is the responsibility of the present generation” and pointed out that, in addition to scientific validity, gaining local understanding is essential for site selection. He further noted that geological disposal is “an issue that should be addressed by Japan as a whole, rather than by any specific region,” and expressed hope that literature surveys would proceed at additional sites in the future.

Regarding HLW disposal, literature surveys have already been conducted in Suttsu Town (2020), Kamoenai Village (2020), and Genkai Town (2024). This marks the first case initiated through a proposal by the national government, and it is expected to draw attention to how the site selection process may evolve going forward.