The powerful earthquake which hit Japan on 11th March 2011 caused a tsunami which added to the destruction of millions of people’s homes and livelihoods.  A consequence of this terrible natural disaster was a man-made disaster - a nuclear power plant which supplies electricity to thousands of homes was damaged.

 Print

Alternative Energy

Instead of using coal and  gas to generate electricity for our homes and schools we have begun using nuclear power as it is much better for the environment in that it does not release carbon dioxide, a gas thought to be responsible for climate change into the atmosphere.  But nuclear power does have its share of problems.  

People’s opinions on nuclear power is divided.  Some say that it isn’t renewable and its waste (radiation) is too poisonous and long-lasting to be a sensible option.  And as recent events in Japan have shown us, any problems or leakages can affect millions of people and is unpredictable.  It is the unknown power of possible nuclear explosions and radiation which are the biggest concern.  The biggest benefit of nuclear power is that it produces very little carbon dioxide (Co2) which is the key cause of climate change.

Read More: The Future of Nuclear Energy

Related Resources