Harrison: Of all energy sources, nuclear energy has
perhaps the lowest impact on the environment, especially in relation to
kilowatts produced, because nuclear plants do not emit harmful gases, require a
relatively small area, and effectively mitigate other impacts. In other words,
nuclear energy is the most" eco-efficient" of all energy sources because it
produces the most electricity in relation to its minimal environmental impact.
There are no significant adverse effects to water, land, habitats, species and
air resources Jeffery: The radioactive particles in
low-level waste emit the same types of radiation that everyone receives from
nature. The U. S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission requires that releases of
radiation at a disposal site not exceed an annual dose to any member of
the public of 25 milligrams to the whole body. In comparison, the average
American is exposed to about 360 milligrams of radiation annually mostly
from natural sources ( such as radon) and medical sources (such as
X-rays). Lawrence: U. S. nuclear power plants use an
enriched form of uranium for fuel. Uranium is a relatively abundant element that
occurs naturally in the earth’s crust. Uranium oxide is about as common as tin.
In 2002,16 countries produced over 99 percent of the world’s uranium. Canada’s
and Australia’s uranium mines account for over 50 percent. Compared to natural
gas, a fuel also used to generate electricity, uranium is already relatively low
in cost and less sensitive to fuel price increases. Matthew:
Nuclear energy contributes to energy security, essential for national
security. As an integral part of the diverse U. S. energy mix, nuclear energy is
a secure energy source that the nation can depend on. Unlike some other energy
sources, nuclear energy is not subject to unreliable weather or climate
conditions, unpredictable cost fluctuations, or dependence on foreign suppliers.
In fact, nuclear energy is a strong domestic as well as international industry,
with extensive fuel supply sources. Randolph: The
design of each plant emphasizes the reliability of plant systems, redundancy and
diversity of key safety systems, and strong physical barriers to prevent
incidents that could pose a threat to public health and safety. Nuclear power
plants containment buildings, in which the reactors are located, are extremely
robust. Steel reinforced concrete containment structures, coupled with multiple,
redundant safety and plant shutdown systems, have been designed to withstand the
impact of hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and airborne objects with a very
substantial force. Now match each of the persons (61 to 65)
to the appropriate statement. Note: there are two extra
statements. Statements [A] There are multiple safety systems and
physical constructions. [B] Nuclear energy has little bad influence on the
environment. [C] Nuclear energy has made a great contribution to national
energy security. [D] Nuclear waste makes a great threat to people, animals,
land and water. [E] We have safe disposal of waste for the protection of
people and the environment. [F] Nuclear energy is an economical energy
source. [G] There is abundant fuel with low cost and stable price. Matthew