In the wake of the Fukushima nuclear incident, the Japanese government has endured a continuing wave of anger and reprimand from sources across the globe.  From their own citizens and politicians, to environmental activists and organizations worldwide, to Japan’s neighbors who are particularly concerned about eating and drinking up the country’s nuclear waste products.  Without the proper regulations and safety procedures, Japan’s nuclear energy program seems to be doing more harm than good.

Now, Japan is looking away from the use of nuclear power as the best option and setting their sights on the importing of more oil for their fuel.  This may look like a step backwards, in a world where the current trend is to create more sustainable energy rather than use up nonrenewable sources, but it may be the only option that the country has.

The question is whether this will help or hinder Japan in the long run.  Oil prices are on the rise and  worldwide demand is always increasing.  Add to that a steadily decreasing supply of oil and Japan may simply not be able to afford to go too far in this direction.  Though they wish to steer away from the nuclear option, they may need to find some other way to fill their energy needs.

Unfortunately, Japan has a bad combination all around when it comes to energy options.  No home oil means no crude.  An earthquake and hurricane-ridden island means that nuclear plants will always be under threat of meltdown.  A primarily mountainous landscape means few places to set up alternative energy options.  One thing is for sure, however – if Japan doesn’t find an answer to this problem, they’re looking at a steady drain on their economy in the future.