Japan Flirts With Environmental Disaster?

In summary, Ryo Matsumoto, a University of Tokyo scientist, warns that methane hydrate, a type of frozen gas, was a key contributor to global warming and a major factor in a past extinction event. He believes that with proper utilization of technology and knowledge, methane hydrate can be tapped as a new energy source. However, there is an estimated 40 trillion cubic feet of methane trapped within thick sheets of ice in the Nankai Trough, off the coast of Japan. This poses a potential risk for mass release of methane into the sea and atmosphere, which could exacerbate global warming. Drilling in the Nankai Trough must be done carefully to avoid massive landslides and prevent a potential disaster.
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...Methane hydrate was a key cause of the global warming that led to one of the largest extinctions in the Earth's history,'' says Ryo Matsumoto, a University of Tokyo scientist who has studied frozen gas since 1987. ``By making the best use of our wisdom, knowledge and technology, we should be able to utilize this wisely as a new energy.''

...Trapped within sheets of ice up to 500 meters (1,640 feet) thick is an estimated 40 trillion cubic feet of crystalline methane encased in an ocean trench called the Nankai Trough, 30 miles (50 kilometers) off the coast of the main Honshu Island.

...``A mass release of methane into the sea and the atmosphere is a risk for global warming,'' he says. ``Massive landslides at the ocean floor must be avoided when drilling at the Nankai Trough.'' [continued]
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=aiUsVKaqDA7g
 
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  • #2
For some terrible reason all I can think is "Never mind the methane hydrate, isn't this how they woke up Gamera?"
 
  • #3
Coin said:
For some terrible reason all I can think is "Never mind the methane hydrate, isn't this how they woke up Gamera?"

LOL! Perhaps Gamera was just a prophetic symbol for a pending hydrate disaster. :biggrin:
 

1. What caused Japan's environmental disaster?

Japan's environmental disaster was caused by the massive earthquake and tsunami that struck the country on March 11, 2011. These natural disasters triggered a nuclear accident at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant, leading to widespread contamination and environmental damage.

2. How has the disaster impacted Japan's environment?

The disaster has had a significant impact on Japan's environment, particularly in the areas surrounding the Fukushima Daiichi power plant. The release of radioactive material has contaminated the land, water, and air, making it unsafe for human and animal life. It has also affected the fishing industry and agriculture in the region.

3. What measures has Japan taken to address the environmental disaster?

Japan has taken several measures to address the environmental disaster, including decontamination efforts, implementing stricter regulations on nuclear power plants, and promoting renewable energy sources. The government has also provided financial assistance to affected communities and continues to monitor the situation closely.

4. Is the situation at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant under control?

The situation at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant is still not fully under control, even after almost a decade since the disaster. While significant progress has been made in stabilizing the reactors and reducing the release of radioactive material, there are still concerns about the long-term management of the plant and its impact on the environment.

5. How can we prevent future environmental disasters like this in Japan?

To prevent future environmental disasters like this in Japan, it is crucial to have proper disaster preparedness plans in place, especially for areas prone to natural disasters. The government must also prioritize safety and strict regulations for nuclear power plants and invest in renewable energy sources to reduce reliance on nuclear energy. Continuous monitoring and improvement of safety measures are also essential to prevent such disasters in the future.

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