Term 2 Week 4 Assignment

Due to the world’s energy crunch, the growing problem of global warming and increasing environmental awareness, nuclear energy is by far the most efficient and cleanest energy source. As the supply of oil, natural gas and coal dwindles, and the subsequent environmental problems caused become increasingly serious, nuclear energy can contribute greatly to the sustainable development of the energy supply of the 21st century, and the socio-economic development of the world.

Due to geographical position, land size and population density, Singapore had turned down nuclear energy as a viable energy option in the past. However, over 50 years of scientific and technological advancement, some of the problems nuclear plants faced in the past have been solved, and modern nuclear reactors can be built cheaper, smaller and safer. Nuclear energy can also improve energy security, reduce carbon emissions and lessen the impact fluctuations of oil and natural gas prices bring.

The building of nuclear plants can create many new job opportunities like nuclear scientists and engineers. Also, nuclear technology can also be used in areas such as cancer treatment, thus research and development in nuclear technology can greatly benefit our economic and medicinal advancements.

Another plus-side for nuclear energy is that nuclear reactors need a lot less fuel to produce as much electricity as a conventional power plant. Also, nuclear fuel can now be recycled and used repeatedly for a long period of time, thus reducing our reliance on imported fuel and ensuring long-term energy security.

We can say that most people know very little about nuclear energy. When we hear the word “nuclear”, we panic. The Japan nuclear crisis illustrated our ignorance clearly. Upon hearing that consuming iodine could prevent radiation effects, many people rushed to purchase salt. Maybe we would need quite some time before we could overcome this mental barrier.

Man only started using nuclear energy less than 60 years ago, and the few nuclear incidents have a negative effect on our hope of using nuclear energy safely. However, looking back at our development of technology, we should have the confidence that nuclear safety technology would be enhanced. Although we dare not say that it is 100% safe, the fact that nuclear energy is becoming safer and safer is an undeniable fact.