Fukushima locals criticize government for tone-deaf tritium mascot
A mascot launched by the Japanese government to coincide with its decision to release treated water from the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the ocean has become the target of criticism by local residents, with many saying it is out of sync with the harsh reality of the situation.
The Reconstruction Agency on Tuesday released a flyer and video on its website featuring the radioactive substance tritium as a cute character to dispel concerns about the government's decision, but they were removed Wednesday night following the criticism.
The radioactive substance tritium depicted as a cute character in a video released by the Reconstruction Agency on April 13, 2021. (Supplied screenshot from the Reconstruction Agency homepage)(Kyodo)