You have probably heard of nuclear energy before. Ask yourself, was it painted as an amazing new innovation in the field of energy, or as a source of extremely harmful environmental contaminants, or both? Well, if you haven’t heard of its dangers, I am here to tell you about them. If you have, then maybe there is something in this post that you haven’t heard about yet.
To start, what is nuclear energy? It is a low-carbon energy source generated through nuclear fission. This fission is attained by splitting uranium atoms. During operation there are low greenhouse-gas emissions and a very high every density. However, the funding and energy needed to achieve this is extremely costly. Additionally, after being spent, nuclear fuel remains as a hazardous toxic waste for thousands of years.
Now you may be thinking: low greenhouse-gas emissions is good for the environment right? If you did think this, you are correct. However, the dangers come in the form of toxic waste. Notice how the fission is achieved by splitting uranium atoms, which is a naturally radioactive substance. This is the first of the concerns. If there happens to be a scenario where the uranium mining is not properly contained, this radioactive substance can enter our waterways and contaminate the wildlife along with any human life sourcing from that waterway. After coming into contact with this toxic waste, it can bioaccumulate in organisms, damaging DNA and increasing the risk of cancer.
Long-term containment for this toxic waste is facing many obstacles. Metals and concrete break down over time, and some compounds of toxic waste could last more than 10,000 years. If the container were to be compromised, then the waste can leak into the surrounding environment, leading to the same worries we have about uranium mining mishaps.
These are the two main worries that we have about nuclear energy production and use. I hope this post has encouraged you to look into any nuclear energy plants in your area, and if they are operating safely.
Green insights 