Assessing Biota and Ecosystem Services in the Area surrounding the Interim Storage Facilities

Abstract

Biological monitoring was conducted in the area surrounding interim storage facilities to assess the current state of the natural environment and to evaluate changes in the ecosystem as a result of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident. A mammal camera trap survey was able to identify 10 species in the vicinity of the facility. A higher number of localized indigenous satoyama species, such as the Hondo raccoon dog, were observed as compared to other areas. This suggests that the indigenous natural satochi-satoyama environmental landscape is being maintained. Frequent observation of the Nosime damselfly, a type of red dragonfly, within the interim storage facility area also indicates that the environment is able to support water-dependent insects. Regarding ecosystem services, indicators related to agriculture, forestry, and fisheries, such as rice, wheat, soybeans, livestock, and marine fisheries, declined significantly due to the earthquake, both inside and outside the evacuation zone. These sectors have not yet recovered, particularly in areas where evacuation orders were issued. However, there was no significant change in regulatory services before and after the earthquake.