Burning Issue from Roundtable Discussion

Hi all,

Nuclear energy has been a hot topic of debate. In Writing Assignment 2, the roundtable discussion mainly focuses on Generation 4 nuclear reactors and we have to argue for one of the reactors that should receive funding for further research and development. However, I personally think that nuclear reactors should not even be in operation because it is potentially dangerous. We saw that the Chernobyl accident had devastating effects on the society. The aftermath is felt even years after the accident with side effects that include deformities in newborn babies. I am sure that almost everyone would agree that the operation of nuclear reactors should stop.

Nuclear energy is efficient in terms of producing high energy output compared to other forms of energy. However, it produces a lot of waste that need to be stored away and this may lead to leakage problems in nuclear waste storage buildings. In cases where waste is being recycled, waste recycling produces plutonium and uranium in its pure form and such chemical waste can be used in the making of nuclear weapons. In addition, we cannot guarantee the safety and security of the reactors. Such buildings can be targeted by terrorists.

Instead, I think that the funding should be used for further research and development on alternative renewable energy such as solar and hydropower energy. Such alternatives are not only safe but also much greener.

In conclusion, I do not agree with nuclear energy as an alternative form of energy. Even though the world’s natural resources are depleting rapidly, we can still rely on renewable energy through intensive research.


Entry by: Izzul Azhar U094758U (",)