日本民众要求调查美军基地“永久性化学物”污染问题

Core Viewpoint - The detection of elevated levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water near the U.S. military base in Iwakuni, Japan, has prompted local civic groups to demand investigations and remediation efforts from the Japanese government and the U.S. military [1][2] Group 1 - A civic group has been conducting water quality tests near the Iwakuni base since October of last year, with the latest results showing PFAS concentrations at 134.4 nanograms per liter, approximately 2.7 times the national standard in Japan [1] - The group is urging the Japanese government and the U.S. military to investigate the pollution source to protect public health [1][2] Group 2 - A Yamaguchi Prefecture official stated that there are no plans to request an investigation from the U.S. military, which has led to strong local opposition [2] - The civic group expressed disappointment over the government's lack of action regarding the evident pollution, emphasizing concerns for public health [2] Group 3 - PFAS are known as "forever chemicals" due to their persistence in the environment and human body, with potential health risks including reproductive issues and increased cancer risks [2] - Reports from 2023 indicate that other regions in Japan, such as Okinawa, Osaka, and Tokyo, have also experienced elevated PFAS levels in water, with nearby residents showing abnormal blood test results [2]