Indian Point, a former nuclear power plant in New York, is being dismantled, and the wastewater from the site contains traces of radioactive tritium. While the company in charge of the dismantling process, Holtec, insists that the discharge of water containing trace amounts of tritium is safe, environmental groups are alarmed by the plan to dump the wastewater into the Hudson River. This has sparked a debate over the best course of action for the million gallons of wastewater on the site.

Holtec claims that discharge into the river is routine and has been done safely for many years. However, Riverkeeper, an environmental group, disagrees, arguing that the safety standards for tritium are outdated and do not consider possible specific risks to pregnant women and children. The group is pushing for the water to be stored on-site.

According to an independent expert advising the state, every option has a downside, but discharge into the river will “minimize harm,” and trace amounts of tritium will immediately be diluted. Holtec also believes that liquid discharge is the least impactful option. However, Riverkeeper is not convinced, and they are looking at multiple options to stop the plan.

It is essential to note that this issue is not unique to Indian Point. Plans to release wastewater are also controversial at the Pilgrim nuclear plant south of Boston and the Fukushima plant in Japan, which shut down after the 2011 tsunami.

Decommissioning nuclear power plants is a complex and delicate process, and there is no simple solution for dealing with radioactive waste. However, it is essential to prioritize the health and safety of communities and the environment in the decision-making process. The potential risks and long-term effects of releasing wastewater into the Hudson River are significant and should not be ignored.

Therefore, we must take action to ensure that the best possible solution is found for the wastewater at Indian Point. This can include exploring alternatives such as evaporation or removal by truck or train, as well as on-site storage for many years. It is our responsibility to hold companies accountable and demand that they prioritize safety and sustainability in their decisions. We can also Support environmental groups such as Riverkeeper in their efforts to protect our natural resources and advocate for responsible waste management practices. Together, we can work towards a cleaner and safer future for our planet.

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