Is Nuclear Power Our Best Bet Against Climate Change?

Flashcards covering key concepts and vocabulary related to nuclear power and climate change as discussed in the lecture.

Decarbonization

The process of reducing carbon dioxide emissions produced by fossil fuel burning.

Fossil fuels

Natural substances such as coal, oil, and natural gas that release carbon dioxide when burned.

Nuclear energy

Energy produced through nuclear reactions, typically by splitting atoms in a reactor to generate heat.

Anthropocene

A proposed geological epoch characterized by significant human impact on Earth's geology and ecosystems.

Uranium mining

The extraction of uranium, a key element used in nuclear fuel, which poses environmental and health risks.

Radioactive waste

Byproducts from nuclear reactors that emit harmful radiation and require careful long-term management.

Renewable energy

Energy sourced from natural processes that are continuously replenished, such as solar, wind, and hydro power.

Public opinion

The collective preferences and attitudes of the public regarding certain issues, such as energy sources.

Carbon emissions

Releases of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.

Climate change

Long-term alteration of temperature and typical weather patterns in a place, primarily due to human activity.

Risk assessment

The systematic process of evaluating potential risks that may be involved in a projected activity or undertaking.

Grid resilience

The ability of an electricity grid to withstand and recover from disruptive events, such as natural disasters.

Alternative energy

Energy generated from sources that do not deplete, including solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal.

Nuclear proliferation

The spread of nuclear weapons and technology, posing risks to global security.

Environmental racism

Policies or practices that disproportionately affect people of color and low-income communities in relation to environmental hazards.

1) What is the range of estimates of deaths from fossil fuels?

Studies estimate between 4 to 7 million deaths annually attributed to air pollution from fossil fuel combustion, impacting public health globally.

2) What is the range of estimates of deaths from nuclear energy?

Studies estimate between 0.01 to 0.05 deaths per terawatt-hour, significantly lower than fossil fuels. Therefore, the total death toll from nuclear energy is much smaller in comparison.

3) What are the reasons to advocate for nuclear power?

Advocating for nuclear power includes its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, provide a reliable energy source, and minimize air pollution and health risks compared to fossil fuels.

4) What are the downsides of nuclear power?

Concerns include radioactive waste management, high initial costs, and the potential for catastrophic failures or accidents.