Potential Offshore Dumping of Volcanic Ash: Japanese Government's Contingency Plans
Potential Offshore Dumping of Volcanic Ash: Japanese Government's Contingency Plans In preparation for the possibility of a large-scale eruption of Mount Fuji akin to the 1707 Hoei eruption, the Japanese government is contemplating strategies for handling the significant ash deposits, including the consideration of offshore dumping. The key concern is the potential shortage of land for temporary storage, prompting the exploration of ocean dumping as a viable solution. Japan's Marine Pollution Prevention Law generally prohibits the disposal of waste into the sea; however, exceptions are made in cases of environmental urgency. The government is contemplating this measure as part of its response to the potential eruption of Mount Fuji. While some experts argue that volcanic ash is a naturally occurring substance with minimal environmental impact, the government plans to conduct thorough examinations of ash samples to assess its potential effects before making any decisions regar...