Editor:
Seems to me the debris cleanup in Japan is more important than trying vainly to rescue the obsolete and unwelcome nuclear power system.
A very unprofessional but practical and economical way to get started on this horrendous task might be: a) create a grid system with string or whatever of all the separate blocks and roads and identify each with signs. Then the owners or tenants of each unit could form a team that would sort, pile, chip and place in front of that unit, with categories to be determined. b) stack reusable lumber (to be used in more building blocks and chips board) c) All shattered wood to be chipped. d) recycle metals. e) suitable refuse to be used in areas that later could be covered with soil and used for gardens. F) PCBs and other contaminants placed in ceramic storage containers.
Other categories may be necessary. These could be taken by specialized trucks to an undamaged area and stored until building begins.
All units and areas could have temporary generators and sanitary facilities etc. Volunteers would make themselves available from every country to take a turn helping and could be assigned to specific units to assist and bring cheer to those overwhelmed (units) of Japanese people. I’m sure lasting bonds of friendship would be created in this sharing of work.
Rebuilding would probably be faster. Don’t forget to rebuild with solar power and recycled water systems. What a chance to go green!
Peg McKinlay
Williams Lake