A renewed global interest in nuclear power is underway due to concerns about the contribution of combustion of fossil fuels to climate change and the unreliability of the supply of fossil fuels. Nuclear power is currently an important source of carbon-free, safe, and domestic energy in many countries.
However, concerns about nuclear waste disposal and the proliferation of nuclear weapons have hindered its expanded use and continued development. As world demand for energy continues to rise, it is recognized that nuclear energy will be required to meet this demand in an environmentally sustainable manner.
Responsible management of nuclear wastes, more efficient processes for conversion of uranium to energy, and effective and secure techniques for recycling used nuclear fuel are some of the key issues which must be addressed in order to develop sustainable nuclear energy technologies for the 21st century.
