Nuclear power produces approximately 10 percent of the world’s energy supply but has for decades sparked controversy among scientists, citizens, and politicians. Supporters of nuclear power argue that it is environmentally safe and an effective means of reducing greenhouse gases and combating climate change. Wind and solar power have a role to play, they contend, but are not sufficient to meet the world’s growing demand for energy. Opponents of nuclear power argue that it is dangerous and costly. The consequences of a meltdown could be catastrophic, they contend, and managing nuclear waste threatens the environment. Rather than build expensive nuclear power plants, they assert, we should invest more in wind and solar energy. Is it time to expand nuclear power?
