MOEJ launches the "GuGuRu Project," aiming to increase people's critical thinking on the health effects of radiation exposure to avoid being misled by misinformation

(July 15, 2021, Tokyo) The Ministry of the Environment, Japan (MOEJ), launched a new project called "GuGuRu Project," aiming to increase people's critical thinking on the health effects of radiation exposure to avoid being misled by misinformation. The "GuGuRu Project" consists of 5 main activities: 1) developing skills to accurately understand scientific facts and discuss them, 2) creating opportunities to learn about radiation, 3) offering decision-making information, 4) providing a comprehensive consultation system, 5) building a website to answer questions and respond to any concerns.

Since the accident of the TEPCO's Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, MOEJ has been conducting risk communications with residents who are concerned about the health effects of radiation exposure, along with providing accurate information nationwide in order to dispel misinformation about the health effects. Radiation might seem like a distant issue as we are rarely confronted to it and due to the many technical terms associated with it. MOEJ decided to launch this project to create opportunities to increase people's ability to critically analyze the overwhelming amount of information spreading on various media platforms without being misled by rumors.

Minister Koizumi declared:

Rumors and fake news generate discrimination and prejudice. In order to prevent this, it will be very important to, first of all, be informed of facts on radiation, make decisions accordingly, listen to experts, and continue to expand your knowledge. MOEJ strongly hopes to provide such opportunity, especially to the young generation building our future.

Regarding "GuGuRu"

TsumuGu: building knowledge

TsunaGu: connecting with people, towns and organizations

TsutawaRu: transmitting knowledge

"GuGuRu Project" Logo

GuGuRu Project focuses on the following items:

1) To know:

Reading journal articles methodically and discussing the data

2) To learn:

Offering programs on radiation where students can attend seminars and make presentations

3) To make decisions:

Offering information on the health effects of radiation to support people's decision-making process

4) To listen:

Responding to concerns and answering any questions on the health effects of radiation exposure

5) To research:

Providing the official website of "GuGuRu Project"

For Japanese