Analysis on Public Participation in Decision-Making of Nuclear Power in China

Abstract

In recent years, like many people from other countries, the Chinese people pay close attention to nation’s development and policy of nuclear power, especially after the Fukushima incident. Furthermore, the concerns become exacerbated with the discussion about building the inland nuclear power plant. At the same time, the enthusiasm of the public participation which has its own characteristics has greatly improved in China. There is limited experience in the field of nuclear power decision-making in China. In this context, this paper comprehensive analyzes the Chinese public participation in decision-making of the nuclear power industry, summarizing the characteristics of public participation in this field. Then a typical case analysis with On-site visit and interview is made for verifying our theory. Based on these studies, some suggestions are put forward.

Meaningful stakeholder involvement in decision making processes on sustainability issues

“…In countries like Vietnam and China, such methodologies seems very well possible regarding local sustainability issues such as sanitation facilities, solid waste management, safe drinking water, and clean air (Dieu and Oanh 2015;Liu et al 2015;Kostka and Mol 2013;Van Buuren and Hendriksen 2010;Zhong and Mol 2008). Yet, this might be less easy on more controversial national issues on sustainability, for instance those issues that relate to national energy provision and security, like nuclear energy or hydropower (Wu et al 2013). Hence, the specific local and/or national geo-political system is a relevant factor in the ability to use Proact 2.0-like methodologies of participatory decision making processes, in a meaningful and successful manner.…”