Nuclear energy is strictly speaking a non renewable source of energy. This essentially arises out of the fact that nuclear energy is derived from the fission process of uranium. The amount of uranium on the surface of the earth is finite. Therefore, nuclear energy is non renewable. However, nuclear energy can artificially be made through the use of breeder reactors and uranium 235. This method, though rare, would enable the renewal of nuclear power.
The advantages and disadvantages that accrue with nuclear energy are diverse in nature. For starters, the nuclear power production entails the fission of uranium. This departs radically from the fossil sources of energy that involve combustion processes. Nuclear energy does not release greenhouse gases and could be classified under the clean sources of energy. In addition, the nuclear energy systems produce more energy compared to other energy sources. As such, low amounts of uranium are used to provide for several energy needs. The disadvantage of nuclear energy lies in the misuse of the nuclear power. The energy can be misused in the manufacture of nuclear weapons. These are categorized under weapons of mass destruction in recognition of their abilities to destroy substantial areas instantly. In addition, the nuclear waste products are highly radioactive in nature. This implies that the wastes, if not properly handled could pose health threats to the populace within their reach.
A decision to build a nuclear power plant close to my home would cause fear and worry in me. This is because of the associated risks that nuclear power plants expose to humanity. In recognition of the fatal nature of the nuclear accidents, I would not wish to have a power plant located near my home. Most countries utilize low amounts of nuclear energy compared to the United States. This can be attributed to the prohibitive high capital costs incurred in investing in nuclear energy.
Works Cited
Nuclear Energy Institute. Making Safe Nuclear Energy Safer: Building on the Nuclear Industry's Commitment to Safety and Preparedness. 13 March 2012. 2 September 2012 <www.nei.org/filefolder/MakingSafeNuclearEnergySafer_FINAL_2-29-12.pdf>.
Richards, Julie. Nuclear Energy. New York: Marshall Cavendish, 2009.
World Nuclear News. Japan moves towards a strategy. 30 August 2012. 2 September 2012 <http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NP_Japan_moves_towards_a_strategy_3008121.html>.
