Ogasawara Mayor Calls for National Decision on Literature Survey

SHIBUYA Masaaki, Mayor of Ogasawara Village, stated on April 13 that the decision on whether to conduct a literature survey related to the geological disposal of high-level radioactive waste (HLW) on Minamitorishima should be made by the national government.

Mayor Shibuya emphasized that nuclear power remains indispensable for ensuring a stable electricity supply in modern society, and pointed out that a final disposal facility for HLW will also be necessary in the future. He stated that "if the government is to take responsibility rather than leaving the matter to local communities, then the government itself should make the decision," underscoring his view that the national government should take the lead in determining whether to proceed with the literature survey.

He further indicated that if the government decides to move forward with the survey, the village would request the following five conditions:

1. While recognizing geological disposal as the most viable option at present, continue research and development on new waste treatment methods and efforts to reduce waste generation.
2. Refrain from expressing the village's position on subsequent stages until similar requests for literature surveys are made to other municipalities.
3. Continue efforts to promote public understanding among residents, including opportunities for dialogue and thematic discussions involving experts, and enhance opportunities for explanation.
4. In light of concerns over reputational damage, ensure that the national government and Nuclear Waste Management Organization of Japan (NUMO) appropriately communicate the geographical conditions and positional relationship between the Ogasawara Islands and Minamitorishima to both domestic and international audiences.
5. Clearly state that conducting a literature survey does not imply a decision to construct a disposal facility.

Mayor Shibuya reiterated his position that the responsibility for determining the necessity of the survey lies with the national government, while also expressing hope that expanding such requests to other municipalities would help deepen nationwide discussions on geological disposal.

On April 14, Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry AKAZAWA Ryosei welcomed the mayor's position, stating that he "appreciates the response of Ogasawara Village." He added that the mayor's views reflect a range of opinions within the community and that the government "takes them seriously." Regarding future steps, the minister said that once the mayor provides a formal response, the government will "listen directly and respond responsibly."