Year
2009
Abstract
Recently there have been worldwide phenomena of “nuclear renaissance”, a global trend in expansion of or embarking on nuclear power generation, in view of attaining sustainable development, assuring energy security and reducing CO2 emissions. However, another major accident would ruin nuclear renaissance and, therefore, there are governance implications of nuclear renaissance worldwide. Introduction of nuclear power requires careful planning and implementation with a sustainable infrastructure to ensure that nuclear energy is used in a safe and secure manner, without diversion, throughout all the stages of its life cycle. The importance of safeguards, nuclear safety and nuclear security, or “3S” is also fully noted in Leaders Declaration at 2008 G8 Hokkaido Toyako Summit and the IAEA has been promoting the 3S concept, recognizing the important interface among them and trying to maximize their synergy effects. Against this background, an international initiative proposed by Japan on 3S-based nuclear energy infrastructure has been launched. Based on good record and substantial experience in 3Ss, Japan has been exerting various efforts in assisting developing and other countries in establishing the required infrastructure to assure 3Ss. This paper summarizes the Japan’s efforts in this area and describes the future prospect. Note: the views expressed in this paper are solely of the authors and do not represent those of the organizations they belong to.