[LINK] Radiation

[Michael Skeggs mike@bystander.net]

While the issues of declining fossil fuel availability make alternatives
critical, I don't understand what impact that has on the reality of what is
happening in Fukushima.
At every stage over the past few days, the developing situation has been
revealed as progressively worse, while the 'cool heads' have proven
consistently wrong.
In this thread the example of "not to worry, the fuel rods are under 16 feet
of water" was trotted out, while I hear this morning on the ABC that these
are, in fact, exposed.

The company that owns this plant has a history of safety cover ups, to the
point where the Japanese prime minister is reportedly furious about the
timeliness and quality of information being released. I suggest skepticism
and prudent risk management should be applied for those on the ground in
Japan.

Fossil fuels, and especially coal, have dramatic health and environmental
consequences, but arguing that because of this failing, nuclear doesn't,
when in the midst of a multi-reactor meltdown 200km from Tokyo is a bit
obtuse.
Regards,
Michael Skeggs