Is Nuclear Power a Source of Green Energy

It is true that nuclear energy may be classed as sustainable, renewable and does not pollute the atmosphere while it is providing energy.

But:-
Nuclear power stations produce radioactive waste which is a pollutant that can be harmful for centuries. Fairly small amounts can be stored relatively safely but over time the amounts will increase. Then what do we do with them? Does that qualify it to be Green Energy?

Storage is only relatively safe. Bury it and it could still be exposed by earthquakes, landslips, procured by terrorist organisations. Green Energy should be totally Green.

And who really wants to live in the vicinity of a powerfully lethal force?

Then again we should consider the manufacturing of the materials needed to build and maintain the power stations - (mining for ores, quarrying for aggregates and stone, the production of building materials) - all of which release large amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere. Nuclear power stations start with a Green Energy deficit.

The greatest cost to the environment both in terms of pollution and financially come when
a) The nuclear power stations are de-commissioned
b) If there is an accident. (Chernobyl isn’t the only one there’s been – only the most publicised.

Nuclear power can only be considered as a source of Green Energy if it is viewed short term. Long term it is potentially disastrous for future generations.

Do we really care?

If you’re interested in saving money and the planet at the same time visit http://www.go-green.uk.com to learn more about Go-Green Ecology. Comments welcomed by Theodora@go-green.uk.com