Nuclear energy, safety and security

PNND does not have policy on nuclear energy, but does provide a forum for information and perspectives about aspects of nuclear energy relating to nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament. This includes analysis of the risks of nuclear weapons proliferation arising from the development of nuclear energy, security controls to prevent nuclear proliferation, and health and environmental aspects that might shed light on the health and environmental aspects of any use of nuclear weapons.

For background on nuclear weapons proliferation risks see Nuclear Energy: The answer to Climate Change or a recipe for weapons proliferation? by Dr Herman Scheer MdB, PNND Notes 2008, pages 5-7

A number of PNND members are active on safety issues especially in light of the radiation risks from the Japanese nuclear reactors damaged in the March 2011 earthquake. PNND Co-President Ed Markey, a senior member of the US House Energy Committee, has released a number of articles and press releases including:

• March 15, 2100: Rep. Markey: Wall Street Could Nix Nuke Power
  
• March 11, 2011: Markey Queries NRC on Seismic Safety of Nuclear Reactors in Wake of Japan Earthquake
  
• March 8, 2011: To NRC: Don’t Approve New Nuclear Reactor Design Before Safety Questions Resolved
  
• March 2, 2011: Markey Calls for Info on Security Violation at the Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station
  

“We’re getting a very serious warning from Japan that we should not believe that humanity can trump Mother Nature.”
PNND Co-President Ed Markey, Senior member of the US House Energy Committee