Nuclear Power - Research Paper Example

The usage of various kinds of natural resources for various purposes which includes the power generation and transportation means, have contributed towards the global warming in a considerable amount. With global warming clouds looming over the modern day society there is a need for an environment friendly energy generation source, nuclear power plants can be considered as the appropriate alternative that can help the environment in a considerable amount. Alternatives are being thought of to minimize the damages to the environment.

Nuclear power plants are thought to be safe in this regard and provide a better option as an alternative of energy source against various other sources of energy. Besides the environmental aspect, hydro powers demand a pre installed infrastructure in form of dams and canals and rivers in the line. Large amount of capital needs to be invested in case of a thousand plus mega watt power generator source. The construction costs are a debatable issue at times, and more often it takes considerable amount of time constructing a large scale dam which can meet the requirements of a large segment of population.

The irrigation means have to be brought into action to establish a chain of flow of water from various rivers into the dam and reservoirs. Nuclear power plants are operational in many parts of the world and are producing electricity on large level and fulfilling the requirements that would otherwise be met by the sources which are fewer environments friendly. Another advantage of it is the readiness with which it can be prepared. Unlike dams, it does not need a massive infrastructure establishment.

Nuclear sources of energy production do not pose any direct threat to the environment; however, they have their own considerations to be taken into account. Though they do not result in direct damages to eco system, the carbon dioxide concern is buried to large extent since it does not result in direct carbon dioxide emission, however they are little dangerous to handle and failure can result in catastrophes. Many incidents have come to forefront where the nuclear power plants have gone wild and resulted in total devastation.

The damages so incurred are far intensive than any other source of energy generation. Japan came across the worst form of reaction from nuclear power plants in recent times, when tsunami struck its cities and resulted in leakage of Fukushima Nuclear power plant in March 2011 and it resulted in melting of layers and hence leakage of radioactive material on a massive scale. This resulted in large scale evacuation of the locals from the neighborhood of the nuclear site (Bryan, Sutton, & Centorino, 2011).

Another similar incident took place in late 20th century in former U.S.S.R and present day Ukraine in the Chernobyl Nuclear power plant. It resulted in large amount of human life loss and nearly 30 people died because of this incident. Later on the improper design of the power plant was termed as the reason for its destruction. Besides its direct implications, large number of skin diseases and various other dysfunctional syndromes were reported in the area (Agranovski, 2011). Considerations need to be taken in to account when it comes to the wastes disposition.

The wastes should be properly handled and should not be exposed to outside elements in the environment since the nuclear reactor material are mostly radio active in nature and can impact not just