Should we even discuss nuclear in a sustainable energy course?

  • Due Jun 2, 2014 at 9:59pm
  • Points 1
  • Questions 1
  • Time Limit None

Instructions

Nuclear energy has its drawbacks. Just Google "Fukushima," "Three-Mile Island," or "Chernobyl." And, transporting and storing waste is a challenge. But, nuclear energy does not produce climate changing emissions like other fossil fuels. Which risks are more acceptable to you? In this module you will evaluate the potential contributions of nuclear power to our energy mix and practice educating decision makers about nuclear energy.
 
"Nuclear power will help provide the electricity that our growing economy needs without increasing emissions. This is truly an environmentally responsible source of energy" - Rep. Michael Burgess (R-TX)
 
"It's ridiculous that time and time again we need a radioactive cloud coming out of a nuclear power-station to remind us that atomic energy is extraordinarily dangerous" - Pierre Schaeffer
 

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Reading & Videos

Read  Sustainable Energy: Without the Hot Air, by David MacKay Chapter 18, 19, 24, 30

Read "Fusion Power: Will it Ever Come." Links to an external site. by William Parkins

Watch the following videos:

Steven Cowley on Fusion Links to an external site.

Tweet your epiphany.

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