Nuclear Energy

NUCLEAR ENERGY

Committee Co-Chairs: Saif Quraishi and Megan Miller

Nuclear energy is produced through a process called fission. This process splits atoms in a nuclear reactor, releasing heat which is used to turn water into steam, which then turns a turbine and generates electricity. Nuclear energy is looked upon favorably as nuclear power plants don't burn fuel and they don't emit greenhouse gases. Many countries have already turned to nuclear power in order to generate electricity for their growing populations. In 1957 the United Nations established the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to produce "clean and affordable energy." The agency has worked to promote “safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear technologies.”

However, nuclear energy poses a threat to humans in the form of accidents and disasters. In 1986, the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant experienced a power surge and exploded, killing 31 and harming thousands with poisonous radiation. In 2011, a tsunami triggered the meltdown of a nuclear plant in Fukushima, Japan, which caused “a total power failure and the plant’s cooling systems shut down, leaking radioactive material into the surrounding area.” Furthermore, some nations wield nuclear nations, and many more are in the process of developing them. Therefore, we must consider the benefits and drawbacks of nuclear technology.

Questions to Consider

• Is nuclear energy the future?
• Does everyone have the right to nuclear energy?
• What is the role of the United Nations to regulate nuclear energy?