The world is now looking for a successful innovation that replaces the wasteful consumption of nonrenewable resources most countries use to produce energy. It is estimated that world has enough oil to hold us for about 40 more years. But what comes after that? It seems governments have started working hard to find solutions. Windmills, solar and nuclear energy are all under serious consideration.
Nuclear energy is currently a popular alternative because it can be clean and effective. France, a veteran of nuclear power, began using nuclear energy during the 1970’s and this energy makes up for ¾ of their current supply. Even the United States, who heavily relies on fossil fuels, uses it for a small part (1/5) of energy production. (World Nuclear Association).
In simple terms, the production of nuclear power starts with uranium, a mineral found in most rocks. It is then placed in a nuclear reactor where the uranium atoms are split, producing heat. The heat is then used to heat water into steam which propels a turbine. Finally, the turbine propels a generator that produces power.
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Keep in mind nuclear energy is a nonrenewable resource, meaning once the energy is used up, it can not be replaced. Others include coal and natural gas, resources we are rapidly depleting. This said, only a small amount of uranium has been mined thus far and it is unlikely to run out in the foreseeable future. Uranium may be a reliable energy source for the next century. In addition it also produces radioactive waste which must be contained in an area where it can not impact the environment.
In 1986, a nuclear reactor in a power plant of the Soviet Union exploded. Radioactive material spread across Europe contaminating the environment and people in the process. The radiation effects of the Chernobyl power plant were so great that parts of Europe are still feeling the effects of it today. (Check out BBC news for more information on Chernobyl)
Lately, controversy over nuclear energy has been centered around the enrichment of uranium in Iran. Because the country’s intentions are unclear, their enriching uranium is seen as a cover for nuclear proliferation. The international community is pressuring Iran to shut down emissions plants and the country has permitted the United Nations to inspect their emissions plant. Only time will tell what their true intentions are, hopefully they are for peaceful purposes.
While Chernobyl and Iran are extreme cases of how nuclear power has the potential to go arye, there are other positives. Nuclear power plants do not create a greenhouse effect nor does it leave a carbon footprint. This is a step up from the catastrophic effects of using fossil fuels that create severe pollution. What’s left to be decided is whether nuclear energy is the best alternative we have to make new energy. As the generation facing a loss of most nonrenewable resources, this is a topic we should stay on top of.
By Jessie Ampofo
Blog Writer 2009-2010, Change Tomorrows World
