A form of energy which uses nuclear reactions to produce steam to turn generators. Naturally occurring uranium is concentrated, enriched, and converted to uranium dioxide—the fuel used in the reactor. This undergoes nuclear fission, which produces large amounts of heat. Some of the highly radioactive spent fuel may be reprocessed while the bulk must be disposed of. Both are costly and hazardous undertakings. The main advantage of nuclear power is the low CO₂ emissions: ‘nuclear power is a low-carbon form of electricity generation that can make a significant contribution to tackling climate change. Ruling out nuclear as a low carbon energy option would significantly increase the risk that the UK would fail to meet its CO₂ reduction targets’ (Meeting the Energy Challenge: A White Paper on Nuclear Power URN:08/525).

A major disadvantage is the risk of contamination—see Tsuji et al. (2012) Environ. Health Prev. Med. 17, 2 124. There are also very high construction and decommissioning costs—‘it would be irresponsible for us to benefit from nuclear power and leave it to later generations to deal with the waste’ (N. Lenssen, Worldwatch Institute)—and the major problems which may arise with any accident, such as the Chernobyl disaster of April 1986. Furthermore, nuclear power stations have a short lifespan. Parkins and Haluza-DeLay (2011) ageconsearch.umn.edu/bitstream/.../StaffPaper11-01. are excellent on the social and ethical considerations of nuclear power development.