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Issues: Nuclear Weapons, Waste & Energy

Position Paper: Commercial Nuclear Power

This October 2005 paper examines the issues that prevent nuclear power from becoming a leading means to combat global warming pollution. In its present state, the nuclear power industry suffers from too many security, safety and environmental exposure problems, not to mention excessive costs, to be a viable alternate energy source. NRDC's nuclear team sets forth several security and safety recommendations for the industry, and until those requirements are met, recommends more practical and economic alternatives to cutting global warming pollution, such as renewable energy and efficiency technologies.

FULL ISSUE PAPER IN PDF
Adobe Acrobat file (size: 228 k)
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OUTLINE
Executive Summary
Nuclear Power's Economic Woes
Nuclear Power's Proliferation and Safety Risks
Nuclear Power's Environmental Impacts
Appendix A: A Primer on Reactors and Nucelar Fuel Cycles
Appendix B: U.S. Policy Regarding Reprocessing and Plutonium Recycle

Related NRDC Pages
State of the Union: Will President Bush Shift Course on Oil Addiction? February 1, 2006

last revised 2.03.06