A Framework for limited use of high-dose areas following the Fukushima nuclear accident

齊藤 良佳*; 伊藤 尚美*; 阿部 暁樹*; 山本 知佳*; 松本 ちひろ*; Zhao, T.*; 森山 信彰*; 吉村 和也; 眞田 幸尚; 坪倉 正治*

Journal of Radiological Protection, 46(1), p.013502_1 - 013502_8, 2026/03

https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6498/ae4c9d

This study reports Japan's implementation of a regulatory framework that enables limited, nonresidential land use in areas where radiation levels remain too high for repopulation following a nuclear accident, focusing on a wind power project in Katsurao Village, Fukushima Prefecture. Katsurao Village establised a multi-stakeholder committee; comprising residents, experts, government authorities, and industry representatives to evaluate dose-reduction measures, access protocols, environmental maintenance, and operational safeguards. The committee identified several unresolved issues, including the absence of standardized monitoring procedures, challenges in managing worker exposure, the need for clear demarcation and communication to prevent unauthorized entry, and mechanisms for transparent reporting in the event of abnormal findings. This case demonstrates both the feasibility and complexity of enabling controlled land use in high-dose areas, underscoring the importance of governance, technical standardization, and sustained risk communication.