The environment is a shared resource, and the topic of how to mitigate the effects of human activities on the air, water, and land has become increasingly significant in recent years. One of the aspects of our energy supply that has garnered the greatest attention in this attempt is its “greenness.” Unfortunately, however, the term “green” appears to be poorly understood.
Some sources define “green” energy as having a low environmental impact; however, this only transfers the topic to determining impact. There is a lot of emphasis right now on greenhouse emissions (GHGs).
The numerous definitions have implications for contemplating what the term “green” might signify for the nuclear-energy sector. While it is not entirely true that nuclear power produces no GHGs, it is valid that GHG emissions from nuclear power generation are significantly lower than those from fossil-fuel-based power sources.
In the 1950s, nuclear energy became commercially viable. Ever since, over 440 nuclear power reactors have been built worldwide, generating 10% of the world’s electricity. In addition, nuclear power is the world’s second-largest low-carbon energy source.
So can we consider nuclear power a renewable source of energy? Some claim that the fact that nuclear power produces long-lived waste proves it is not “green,” yet the same argument could be made for the wastes generated in the manufacturing of the components needed for solar or wind power generation.
So, is nuclear energy completely eco friendly? It gives huge benefits to humanity, but it also negatively impacts.
The video below highlights all of the primary benefits and drawbacks of nuclear energy:
