For and Against Nuclear Power - Essay Example

For and Against Nuclear Power Introduction The rise of nuclear power was one of the most important technological advancement in the 20th century. Some countries especially the most developed have nuclear plants as a source of energy. Nuclear power is a reliable source of heat and energy. Interest for nuclear power continues to rise world wide. Nuclear power is credited as an alternative to those countries that do not produce petroleum product. It reduces overreliance on import of these products.

However, others are against nuclear power to because it affects both human and environment. This paper discusses reasons for and against nuclear power. There has been varying views about nuclear power. Some people are against nuclear while others support nuclear power as a source of energy and electricity. Nuclear power is believed to be an alternative to threats of global warming. In addition, it offers unlimited source of electricity and energy. Actually, green house emissions contribute to rise globally causing an increased temperature rise.

Electricity generation is a major contributor of greenhouse gas mainly due to burning of fossil fuels. On the other hand, nuclear plant does not emit carbon dioxide that is one of the major components of green house gas. Therefore nuclear power acts as a complement to other non-polluting source liken wind and solar. Moreover, nuclear power is the most reliable source of energy. There is possibility of having reliable and enough energy from nuclear plant twenty with no disruption. Nuclear power is not subject to wind, sun or tides.

The amount of energy needed can be regulated. Additionally, waste resulting from nuclear power is minimal and accumulates after many years. Hence, there is no harm to the environment. In addition, nuclear power increases country dependence on its own source of energy. This will help a country avoid unstable supply of oil and gas usually due to conflicts arising in source countries. Hence, Supply disruption will not affect countries that have adopted nuclear power (Ferguson, & Council on Foreign Relations, 2007).

However, there are still some disadvantages of nuclear power. Of the most important is the cost of building a nuclear plant. In fact, it is uneconomical compared top other source of energy. Country economy is affected significantly. Moreover, nuclear power site are becoming the target for terrorist attack. Such an attack is likely to affect the country involved significantly. Nuclear plant releases harmful chemicals with long-term consequences to the general population. Chronic diseases are likely to result from the chemicals released.

Additionally, nuclear power continues to increase threat of atomic weapons. Conflicting nations can use such weapon in times of war and this will be harmful to the environment and general population. Lastly, various Governments are faced with challenge of disposal of waste from nuclear plant. (Ferguson, & Council on Foreign Relations, 2007). ConclusionIn conclusion, the safety of nuclear plants continues to be improved because of previous disaster witnessed in the world. There is likelihood some waste may released to the environment affecting health of individual especially those near the site.

However, much effort needs to be put to address concerns arising on nuclear plant. Consequently, full benefits will be realized without any complain.ReferenceFerguson, C & Council on Foreign Relations. (2007). Nuclear Energy: Balancing Benefits and Risks. New York: Council on Foreign Relations