Nuclear energy has gotten a lot of attention since the recent nuclear disaster in Japan. After the recent earthquake struck Japan, a series of equipment failures led to the release of radioactive material <source>. This incident has made the public look at nuclear energy in a new light and reconsider the options of having nuclear energy in their own cities. Is it safe to build these possible time-bombs in a community? In the future, would it be wise for us to rely on most of its energy from nuclear power or by doing so are we digging our own graves?
Fully understanding nuclear energy is the first step in making an informed decision in such important matters. As explained by Ontario Power Generation, a nuclear power plant works conventionally the same was as a coal or a natural gas plant: the only difference lies in using uranium as the main fuel source. Uranium, unlike other fuel sources, is not burned. Instead, the uranium atom is split through a process known as fission which creates heat. The splitting of one uranium atom releases heat and subatomic particles called neutrons are released from their molecular bonds. Neutrons continue to move along and bump into other uranium atoms, further splitting those other atoms. The heat released from the fission process is used to make steam. This steam is piped over large turbines which turn to generate electricity <Source>.
One thing to keep in mind is that relying on nuclear power would lead to a reduction of greenhouse gases. This should definitely be one of our main priorities, as climate change is worsening day by day. Additionally, there is a sufficient supply of uranium around the world that it can be relied on to last for at least half a century <source>. Furthermore, the number of nuclear disasters that have occurred in the past are far less than disasters from fossil fuel sources. Some may claim nuclear power will heighten security threats, but if strict policies are in place against proliferation, then there should not be any risk of terrorist activities regarding nuclear energy.
Those against nuclear energy argue that it carries a high capital cost, with the construction of both a nuclear power plant and reactors. Radiation leaks would also be a constant threat, which would cost billions of dollars and several years to clean up. Another problem noted against nuclear energy is that it creates lots of productive waste at its mining and refining facilities.
Looking at both sides of the issues it is clear to see that although nuclear energy is not without its faults, (with its high capital costs and many safety and environmental concerns) it does have its benefits: no emission of green-house gases into the environment. When comparing nuclear to others processes of obtaining energy, nuclear is definitely not the worst.
Aisha Shoaib
Blog Writer 2011, Change Tomorrow’s World
Wajiha Suboor
Editor 2009-2011, Change Tomorrow’s World
