Prefectural statement at Okinawa environmental conservation symposium on halting Henoko construction (trans. 14se21)
Facing the move of the US Military Futenma Airfield from Ginowan, a symposium considering the biodiversity and environmental conservation of seas around Henoko in the city of Nago was held on 11 September. In opposition to both the American and Japanese governments, Governor Denny Tamaki and various experts adopted a statement requesting a halt to construction and dialog with the Prefecture. Governor Tamaki stressed that over 5300 species of organisms, including 262 endangered species, live in those seas, as well as the dugong that feed on its expensive seaweed beds. As for the landfill, the governor stated, “I have a strong gut feeling of fear it will have a profound impact on the ecosystem.” In order to strengthen the soft ground of the seabed, the National Government asked the Prefecture for construction design changes. However, experts pointed out that construction is unfeasible due to the soil structure. Original Japanese article: Kyodo Press, published Saturday 11 September 2021...