'Implications for the Nuclear Power Industry Caused by New Views on Climate Change and Societal Implications thereof”

摘要

In spite of public perceptions to the contrary, the United States of America has 103 nuclear reactors for electricity generation, more than any other nation. Worldwide there are 440 operating nuclear power plants. The fastest growth in nuclear power plants is occurring in Asia, e.g., 40% of Japan’s electricity is generated via nuclear power. Everyone has seen the commercials on television from BP which ask people around the world “how big is your carbon footprint?” As a consequence, the price of “yellow cake” has risen 76% in the past year. President George Bush has committed to support nuclear-based generationof electric power for India. Today, neither Australia nor the United States can provide power plant fuels to India. Forty years ago, Japan would have nothing to do with nuclear plants of any sort. How are public opinions changing? How does public opinion affect public policy?