Nuclear Myths

Dan Marino in his “Debunking Nuclear Energy Myths” explores the pro-nuclear propaganda which is resurfacing due to a bill filed recently by Congress. This bill proposes to revive the Philippine Nuclear Power Plant project (PNPP), which includes $1 billion of US aid for the Bataan Plant. The first myth is that nuclear energy is clean. While the nuclear reactor itself is clean, the nuclear fuel cycle, which is necessary for the existence of the nuclear reactor, is not. The cycle is “heavily dependent” on fossil fuels and creates unacceptable amounts of toxic, radioactive waste. Also, when compared to conservation methods (such as compact fluorescent bulbs and improving insulation in buildings), nuclear power’s energy efficiency is extremely low. The second myth is that nuclear energy is inefficient. Marino cites Kristin Shrader-Frechette, who claims that a new nuclear power plant in the western United States is generating electricity at 11 cents per kilowatt-hour, yet the US government calculates the generation of electricity from wind plants at just 3.4 cents per kilowatt-hour. The cost of nuclear plants is high; but the government gives huge subsidies which mask the true cost. The third myth is that using nuclear power is necessary to address climate change. Marino argues that building one expensive nuclear plant is wasteful, because this money could be used to research cheaper, cleaner, safer, and renewable energy. The fourth myth is that nuclear energy will not increase weapons proliferation. Any nuclear plant could either be used as a target for violence or a mask for the creation of nuclear warheads. Both the SUS Office of Technology and the International Atomic Energy Agency agree in rebuking this myth. Finally, Marino claims that nuclear energy is not safe. The entire energy production process is extremely vulnerable to mistakes or deliberate attacks which would result in unprecedented harm.
In today's world, many non-west nations are fighting to obtain rights to build nuclear power plants. These environmental and security concerns should be delt with before adding to the number of unsafe stations all over the world. India has an estimated 100-140 nuclear warheads at its disposal along with its 17 nuclear power plants. People now need to consider whether continuing to build large quantities of nuclear power plants is wise.