3 .

Analysis of the main environment issues using nuclear fuels as main source of energy

A major environmental concern related to nuclear power is the creation of radioactive wastes
such as uranium mill tailings, spent (used) reactor fuel, and other radioactive wastes. These
materials can remain radioactive and dangerous to human health for thousands of years. The
main environmental impact of nuclear power is related to building the plant, fuel procurement
and the thermal load of cooling water discharged into the sea during operation. Of these three
things, the most significant environmental concern is the thermal load on the sea caused by the
cooling water.

The Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster of 2011 exemplified the profound environmental
consequences associated with reliance on nuclear fuels for energy generation. Following the
disaster, a significant release of radioactive materials contaminated the surrounding air, soil, and
water sources. For instance, radioactive isotopes like cesium-137 and iodine-131 were detected
in soil samples and water bodies, posing severe health risks to both humans and wildlife. This
contamination disrupted local ecosystems, leading to observable impacts such as genetic
mutations in plant and animal populations. Additionally, the prolonged exposure to radiation
resulted in long-term health effects, including increased cancer rates and reproductive issues
among residents and wildlife in the affected areas.

The evacuation and displacement of thousands of people from their homes and communities
highlighted the social, economic, and psychological toll of nuclear disasters. For instance, entire
towns and villages within the Fukushima prefecture were abandoned, leaving behind ghost towns
and impacting local economies. The displacement also led to the loss of cultural heritage and
community ties, exacerbating the trauma experienced by affected individuals and families.

Furthermore, the Fukushima disaster fueled public opposition to nuclear energy and
intensified concerns over safety and waste management practices. For example, communities
worldwide questioned the adequacy of nuclear power plant designs and emergency response
protocols. Additionally, the management of radioactive waste, such as spent fuel rods and
contaminated water, became a pressing issue. The lack of viable long-term solutions for storing
and disposing of nuclear waste raised environmental and public health concerns.

In conclusion, the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster serves as a stark reminder of the
environmental risks associated with nuclear energy production. It underscores the importance of
stringent safety measures, improved disaster preparedness, and the development of sustainable
energy alternatives. The lessons learned from Fukushima should guide future energy policies to
prioritize safety, environmental protection, and public health.

Reference
Abe, Yasuhito. 2015. Measuring for What: Networked Citizen Science Movements after the
Fukushima Nuclear Accident. PhD diss., University of Southern California.

Aldrich, Daniel P. 2008. Site Fights: Divisive Facilities and Civil Society in Japan and
the West. Ithaca, NY: Cornell University Press.
Documentary: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt26734180/