On the first anniversary of the Fukushima nuclear disaster, Greenpeace volunteers gathered in Amman to hold a vigil
The event was organised to show solidarity with those who have suffered due to the Fukushima incident and all those who have been placed in danger due to the use of nuclear power. Greenpeace Jordan, which has been campaigning against the country’s plans to build a nuclear reactor, added that they wanted to say that Jordan “still has a chance to protect the future of its people.” At around 6.30pm, 40 sky lanterns were released by Jordanians citizens and Japanese students to remember the nuclear disaster which began to unfold exactly one year ago in Fukushima.
“We stand in solidarity with the roughly 150,000 residents of the area whose homes and lands have been contaminated by the nuclear meltdowns and who face uncertainty concerning their personal health and that of their children,” said Raefah Makki, Greenpeace Arab World Communications Director. “Jordan must never experience the same,” added Makki.
The Jordanian government wants to build a 1,000 megawatt nuclear reactor to help end its heavy dependence on energy imports. The nuclear plant will be located at Majdal, near Mafraq, which is some 40 kilometres northeast of Amman the capital of Jordan. According to the Jordan Atomic Energy Commission, the nuclear power plant will be built in 2013 for operation by 2020.
Greenpeace activist Amr Al Musa said he had gathered in Amman to show his support for the people of Japan. “We stand together to say ‘No More Fukushimas’ and to call for the protection of our future.”
Greenpeace campaigners also called on the Jordanian government to build a new energy future using safe and affordable renewable energy sources. Greenpeace worldwide is calling for a global phase out of nuclear power by 2035 to protect lives of millions who continue to be exposed to nuclear risks.
:: Images via Bilal Omar
For more nuclear power in Jordan see:
The Fukushima Disaster One Year On
Jordan Pushes On With Its Nuclear Plans
Greenpeace Raises More Questions Over Jordan’s Nuclear Plans
Can Nuclear Power Ever Be Justified for Environmental Reasons?
Author: Arwa Aburawa
Arwa is a Muslim freelance writer who is interested in everything climate change related and how Islam can inspire more people to care for their planet and take active steps to save it while we can. She is endlessly suspicious of all politicians and their ceaseless meetings, especially as they make normal people believe that they are not part of the solution when they are the ONLY solution. Her Indian auntie is her model eco-warrier, and when Arwa is not busy helping out in the neighborhood alleyway garden, swap shopping or attempting fusion vegetarian dishes- with mixed success, she’d like to add- she can be found sipping on foraged nettle tea.
