Where Does Nuclear Fit Into the Energy Future?
At PlanetWatch, we find it uniquely challenging to form recommendations regarding the role of nuclear power in future energy plans for Earth. First, the capital required to build a nuclear facility is very high. Second, no one wants a plant near where they live owing to fears, not completely unfounded, that another Three Mile Island or Chernobyl could ensue. Third, there are unresolved questions of how suitably to dispose of waste material from these plants. Finally, and perhaps most important, there is some risk that more nuclear facilities will accelerate the proliferation of nuclear technology, and eventually weapons, into more hands, including some that are irresponsible and hostile to the West. Nevertheless, we feel obliged to develop at least provisional stands on these issues, lest we be accused of hiding our heads in the sand. Accordingly, we here offer a macro-view of where we suspect nuclear technology should fit into our energy futures, with lots of room for adjustment as ot
