There is a very large misconception that nuclear energy is clean. This argument is one that comes about as a result of the nuclear industries manipulation and media. The reason people think this is because nuclear reactors only emit a small amount of CO2. But what about the process it took to build those reactors? These reactors require massive amounts of concrete, steel, and carbon-based fuels. Furthermore, processing and uranium mining also results in carbon emissions. A study conducted by Virginia Tech estimates that nuclear power is accountable for about 6 times the carbon emission of wind power.
The most disturbing aspect of nuclear power is the toxic radiation it involves. The reactors are emitting radiation which has led to serious health consequences. Uranium has an incredibly long half life and so it remains toxic long after the plant is out of use. Major health issues have risen for people who live by these Uranium mining sites. For example, the Navajo Nation has banned uranium mining due to the widespread health effects it had including birth defects and high cancer rates.
Finally, nuclear energy should not be used because of the great risks associated with having these plants. Although the incidents are few, a nuclear meltdown causes catastrophic casualties. This is evidenced by the thousands killed or still negatively affected in Chernobyl and Fukushima. Bottom line is, nuclear energy is NOT “clean” energy and furthermore, it is costly and dangerous.
The most disturbing aspect of nuclear power is the toxic radiation it involves. The reactors are emitting radiation which has led to serious health consequences. Uranium has an incredibly long half life and so it remains toxic long after the plant is out of use. Major health issues have risen for people who live by these Uranium mining sites. For example, the Navajo Nation has banned uranium mining due to the widespread health effects it had including birth defects and high cancer rates.
Finally, nuclear energy should not be used because of the great risks associated with having these plants. Although the incidents are few, a nuclear meltdown causes catastrophic casualties. This is evidenced by the thousands killed or still negatively affected in Chernobyl and Fukushima. Bottom line is, nuclear energy is NOT “clean” energy and furthermore, it is costly and dangerous.
