With the increase in awareness of climate change, nuclear energy caught people’s eyes as the world moved toward decarbonization. Regardless of the controversy people have, nuclear energy is a major key in the solution to the climate crisis.
Consequences?
While we frequently view human-induced climate change as a future event, it is currently underway. The ecosystems and communities around the world are experiencing the impacts. For many people global warming only refers to a rise in temperature, but it is more than that. A change in temperature will bring a series of consequences including:
- Severe storms and flooding
- Drought and wildfire
- Rising sea level
- Loss of species
- Not enough food/ water
- Increase health risks
Replacing Fossil Fuels
Though there are multiple variables that cause climate change, fossil fuels are by far the largest contributor. For over a decade fossil fuels have been the main source of energy to propel our cars, power our businesses, and light our homes. Despite all the green initiatives governments and companies have taken, fossil fuels (oil, coal, and gas) still account for 80 percent of the energy consumption. Not to mention that the amount of fossil fuels usage is increasing steadily over the years.
Preliminary analysis by scientists of 2023 data indicates a 1.1 percent increase in fossil fuel emissions compared to 2022 levels, resulting in a total of 36.8 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide emitted in 2023.
Decarbonization
The clock is ticking, yet there’s still an opportunity for redemption within our grasp. Alongside transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, nuclear energy presents itself as a promising alternative.
First and foremost, among all the energy alternatives currently available, nuclear energy is indeed the cleanest source of energy. During operation and throughout their life cycle, nuclear power plants emit zero greenhouse gas. They generate approximately the same amount of carbon dioxide-equivalent emissions per unit of electricity as wind energy. In efforts to mitigate climate change, the Paris Climate Agreement aims to restrict the average rise in global temperature to below 1.5°C. Achieving this objective necessitates a heightened reliance on nuclear energy.
In opposition to fossil fuels, nuclear power does not release fine particles, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrates, or phosphates into the atmosphere. Air pollution, alongside the climate crisis, represents a significant public health concern.
Immediate Action Should Be Taken
We must deploy all technologies capable of addressing one of humanity’s most pressing challenges. Delay is not an option, as the effects of climate change will disproportionately affect the poorest and most vulnerable populations first, with profound humanitarian consequences if we fail to take action.
