on the chopping block
高速増殖炉(fast-breeder reactor)が数十年後には,日本からなくなっているかもしれません。on the chopping blockは「廃止される運命の,大幅に削減されそうな」という意味の表現です(『ジーニアス英和大辞典』大修館書店)。議題にかけられるという「まな板(chopping block/board)」に置かれて,どう料理されるのでしょうか。今後の動向が気になります。(Sugiuchi)
On the chopping block: The Monju experimental fast-breeder reactor in Tsuruga, Fukui Prefecture, is being increasingly seen as unviable.
A panel of experts reviewing the nuclear fuel cycle policy in light of the Fukushima crisis has agreed that while a fast-breeder reactor has advantages, from a technology viewpoint it can't be considered a realistic option for the next 20 to 30 years.
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/text/nn20120225a2.html