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2 Lt MAIRM Arachchi SLAWC
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CONTENTS

Page No

1. Introduction 3-5

2. History 6-11

3. Present Situation 12-13

4. Future Aspects 14-16

5. Recommendations 17-19

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INTRODUCTION

1. Nuclear Power has profound impact. This may affects

to the sustainability, safety and future of our planet. Besides it
may cause to the health issues, environmental problems and
the economy of the world. Nuclear Power Plants generate
electricity continuously so it has a capable of supplying
electricity throughout the world with in seconds. The
developed countries never get power cuts or drops. Nuclear
power plants are emitting low amount of greenhouse gases so
the carbon footprint also in low condition. As a result of that
sutainable development can be achieved by near future.

2. The countries which are using nuclear power they no

need to depend on fossil fuels because this is marker of
technological prowess. This technology is flexible. The last
stage of this process is radioactive waste. By Technological
innovations and safety concerns can be control the situation.
Nuclear power plants are using some curtain amount of
workers, resources and land space.

3. The impact of nuclear power on the world is a complex

and multifaceted subject that encompasses a range of
economic environmental, geopolitical, and safety
considerations. Here's an introductory overview of key aspects.
Nuclear power contributes a significant portion of the world's
electricity. It is a low-carbon energy source, helping to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels. Some
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countries rely heavily on nuclear power for their energy needs,

enhancing energy security by diversifying the energy mix.

4. Nuclear power is considered a low-emission energy

source, as it does not produce large amounts of carbon dioxide
during electricity generation. This has led to its inclusion in
discussions about mitigating climate change. However,
concerns exist about the environmental impact of uranium
mining, nuclear accidents, and the long-lived radioactive waste
produced by nuclear power plants.

5. Nuclear accidents, such as those at Chernobyl and

Fukushima, have had profound and lasting impacts on the
perception of nuclear power. Safety measures, regulatory
frameworks, and emergency response protocols have been
significantly enhanced in response to these incidents.

6. The spread of nuclear technology raises concerns about

nuclear proliferation. The potential for the misuse of nuclear
materials or technologies for weapons purposes is a global
security issue. One major challenge associated with nuclear
power is the long-term management of radioactive waste.
Developing safe and secure storage solutions for high-level
nuclear waste remains an ongoing concern. Nuclear power
projects often involve high initial capital costs and lengthy
construction times. Economic considerations, including the
cost of electricity production and potential subsidies, play a
crucial role in shaping the development of nuclear energy.

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Public opinion regarding nuclear power varies. While some see

it as a necessary and reliable energy source, others are
concerned about safety, waste management, and the
environmental impact of nuclear accidents.

7. Ongoing research and development aim to improve

nuclear technology, making it safer, more efficient, and
potentially more cost-effective. Advanced reactor designs,
such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), are being explored.
The role of nuclear power in global energy policy is dynamic,
with some countries expanding their nuclear capacity, while
others are phasing out or reconsidering their reliance on
nuclear energy in favor of renewable sources.

HISTORY

8. Three Mile Island Incident. The Three Mile

Island (TMI) incident refers to a partial meltdown of a nuclear
reactor that occurred on March 28, 1979, at the Three Mile
Island Nuclear Generating Station in Pennsylvania, United
States. It is considered the most serious accident in the history
of the American commercial nuclear power generating
industry. The incident began with a cooling malfunction in the
plant's second reactor, Unit 2. A valve in the cooling system
became stuck in the open position, leading to a loss of coolant
and a partial meltdown of the reactor core. The operators
initially misinterpreted the situation, and by the time they
realized the severity of the problem, a significant amount of
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radioactive gas had been released into the atmosphere.

Fortunately, the reactor containment structure successfully
contained most of the radioactive material, preventing a more
catastrophic release. The incident did not result in any
immediate injuries or deaths, but it raised concerns about the
safety of nuclear power plants and had a significant impact on
public perception of nuclear energy. In the aftermath of the
Three Mile Island incident, safety regulations for nuclear
power plants were reevaluated and strengthened. It led to
improvements in emergency response procedures, better
training for plant operators, and increased scrutiny of nuclear
power plants by regulatory authorities. The incident at Three
Mile Island had a lasting impact on the nuclear power industry
in the United States and worldwide, contributing to a more
cautious approach to the development and operation of nuclear
facilities.

9. Chernobyl Disaster. The Chernobyl disaster

occurred on April 26, 1986, at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power
Plant in Pripyat, Ukraine, which was then part of the Soviet
Union. It is considered the worst nuclear disaster in history.
The disaster unfolded during a late-night safety test in the No.
4 reactor of the Chernobyl plant. Due to a combination of
design flaws and operator errors, a sudden power surge led to a
massive explosion, blowing the reactor's roof off and releasing
a significant amount of radioactive material into the
atmosphere. The immediate impact caused the deaths of two
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plant workers, and a firefighting crew, who responded to the

initial fire, faced lethal levels of radiation and died within
hours. The explosion and subsequent fires released large
amounts of radioactive particles into the air, contaminating the
surrounding areas and spreading fallout across Europe. In the
days that followed, thousands of people were evacuated from
nearby towns and villages, and a large exclusion zone was
established around the plant. The Soviet authorities eventually
deployed liquidators workers tasked with containing the
disaster and minimizing its consequences. These liquidators
faced high levels of radiation exposure, and many experienced
health issues in the years that followed. The Chernobyl
disaster had far-reaching environmental, health, and social
consequences. The release of radioactive substances had both
immediate and long-term effects on the health of people in the
affected regions, and there were increased rates of cancers,
particularly thyroid cancer, among those exposed to the
radiation. The disaster also had a profound impact on global
attitudes toward nuclear energy, leading to increased scrutiny
of nuclear safety measures and the reassessment of reactor
designs. It played a role in shaping international nuclear safety
regulations and policies. The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone
remains largely uninhabited, and efforts to contain and manage
the radioactive contamination continue to this day. The
incident remains a symbol of the potential dangers associated
with nuclear power and the importance of stringent safety
measures in the industry.

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10. Fukushima Diiachi Disaster. The Fukushima

Daiichi nuclear disaster occurred on March 11, 2011, following
a powerful earthquake and tsunami that struck off the coast of
Japan. The disaster affected the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear
Power Plant, operated by the Tokyo Electric Power Company
(TEPCO) in the Fukushima Prefecture. The sequence of events
began with a magnitude 9.0 earthquake, one of the most
powerful ever recorded, which triggered a massive tsunami.
The tsunami inundated the Fukushima Daiichi plant, disabling
the power supply and backup generators needed to cool the
reactors. Without proper cooling, three of the plant's six
reactors suffered meltdowns, releasing radioactive materials
into the environment. The disaster resulted in the evacuation of
tens of thousands of people from the surrounding areas due to
the risk of radiation exposure. The evacuation, combined with
the physical and psychological impact of the earthquake and
tsunami, led to a complex humanitarian crisis. The Fukushima
Daiichi disaster was classified as a Level 7 event on the
International Nuclear Event Scale (INES), the same level as the
Chernobyl disaster. However, the actual release of radioactive
material from Fukushima was significantly lower than that of
Chernobyl. In the aftermath of the disaster, there were
increased concerns about nuclear safety and public opposition
to nuclear power in Japan and globally. The Japanese
government implemented strict safety measures and reassessed
its nuclear energy policies. All nuclear power plants in Japan
were temporarily shut down for safety inspections, and the
country started to shift towards a greater emphasis on
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renewable energy sources. Efforts to decommission and clean

up the Fukushima Daiichi plant continue. TEPCO has been
working on stabilizing the damaged reactors, managing
radioactive water storage, and decontaminating the affected
areas. The decommissioning process is expected to take several
decades. The Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster had a
significant impact on the nuclear power industry, influencing
global discussions on nuclear safety, disaster preparedness, and
the risks associated with nuclear energy. It prompted increased
scrutiny of nuclear facilities and sparked a reevaluation of
nuclear energy policies in various countries.

PRESENT SITUATION

11. Nuclear power has been a part of the global energy

mix, contributing to electricity generation in various countries.
Some nations rely heavily on nuclear power, while others use a
mix of different energy sources. Public perception of nuclear
power varies. While some view it as a clean energy source
with low carbon emissions, others express concerns about
safety, potential accidents, and the disposal of radioactive
waste. Regulatory frameworks play a crucial role in the
development and operation of nuclear power plants. Stringent
safety measures and regulatory oversight are essential for
gaining public trust and ensuring the safe operation of
facilities.

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12. The construction of new nuclear power plants has been

a topic of discussion in various regions. Some countries have
been investing in new nuclear projects, while others have been
phasing out or decommissioning older facilities. Advances in
nuclear technology, such as small modular reactors (SMRs)
and next-generation designs, have been areas of exploration to
address some of the challenges associated with traditional
nuclear power plants.

13. In the context of addressing climate change, nuclear

power is sometimes considered a low-carbon alternative to
fossil fuels. However, its role in the global push towards
renewable energy sources like solar and wind is still a subject
of debate. The potential for nuclear weapons proliferation
remains a global concern. The spread of nuclear technology
and materials poses risks, and international efforts to prevent
the proliferation of nuclear weapons are ongoing. The
decommissioning of older nuclear facilities is an important
aspect of nuclear power management. Safe and effective
decommissioning processes are necessary to address the
challenges associated with aging infrastructure.

FUTURE ASPECTS

14. Mini nukes Russian Ambassador Mr.

Dzhagaryan introduces us the mininukes. These are like small
nuclear power plants which are using the electricity to make

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the electricity. By 2030 this will be planted in Sri Lanka and

its published by an agreement with the present government.

15. There is ongoing research and development in

advanced reactor technologies, including small modular
reactors (SMRs), advanced fission reactors, and even
experimental fusion reactors. These technologies aim to
address safety concerns, reduce costs, and provide more
flexible and efficient energy solutions. Enhancing safety
features and developing inherently safer reactor designs is a
priority for the nuclear industry. Advanced technologies, such
as passive safety systems, aim to minimize the risk of
accidents and improve the overall safety profile of nuclear
power. Fusion, the process that powers the sun, holds the
promise of providing a nearly limitless and cleaner source of
energy. Although practical fusion power generation is still in
the experimental stage, there are ongoing international efforts
to develop and demonstrate viable fusion reactors. As older
nuclear power plants reach the end of their operational lives,
the focus will be on effective decommissioning and safe
management of radioactive waste. Innovations in
decommissioning techniques and strategies for handling
nuclear waste are critical for the long-term sustainability of
nuclear energy. Nuclear power can complement intermittent
renewable energy sources like solar and wind by providing a
stable and continuous base load power supply. Integrated
energy systems that combine nuclear with renewables and
energy storage may play a role in achieving a more reliable
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and sustainable energy grid. The cost of nuclear power has

been a significant factor influencing its future. Innovations in
reactor designs, construction methods, and financing models
are essential to make nuclear power more economically
competitive with other energy sources.

16. Addressing public concerns about safety, waste

disposal, and nuclear proliferation is crucial for the acceptance
and expansion of nuclear power. Public education and
transparent communication about the benefits and risks of
nuclear energy are essential to build trust.

17. Given the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,

nuclear power may play a role in mitigating climate change by
providing a low-carbon energy source. Policymakers and
industry stakeholders will need to consider the role of nuclear
energy in achieving global climate goals. Collaboration on
nuclear research, safety standards, and non-proliferation efforts
remains vital. International cooperation can help address
common challenges, share knowledge, and contribute to the
responsible development of nuclear energy.

RECOMMANDATIONS

18. Advanced nuclear technology encompasses innovations

like next-generation reactors, such as small modular reactors
(SMRs) and advanced fission designs, which offer enhanced
safety features, reduced nuclear waste, and increased
efficiency. Thorium-based reactors, molten salt reactors, and
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high-temperature gas-cooled reactors are at the forefront,

promising better resource utilization and decreased
proliferation risks. Advanced fuel cycles, like fast breeder
reactors and advanced reprocessing methods, aim to optimize
fuel usage and minimize radioactive waste. Furthermore,
advancements in materials science and digital control systems
contribute to overall safety and operational improvements.
These technologies collectively strive to make nuclear energy
a sustainable and reliable part of the future energy landscape.

19. Enhancing nuclear safety involves implementing

stringent measures throughout the nuclear fuel cycle. Robust
reactor designs with passive safety features, like automatic
shutdown systems, bolster resilience against accidents.
Improved emergency response protocols, including advanced
monitoring and communication systems, enhance
preparedness. Enhanced training for personnel and stringent
regulatory oversight contribute to a safety culture. Regular
maintenance, inspections, and upgrades ensure aging
infrastructure remains secure. Innovations in materials science
and containment structures further fortify against potential
hazards. International collaboration facilitates shared expertise
and standardized safety practices. Overall, a comprehensive
approach involving technological, operational, and regulatory
enhancements is crucial to continually elevate nuclear safety
standards worldwide.

20. Efficient nuclear waste management is imperative for a

sustainable nuclear energy future. Advanced reprocessing
technologies can extract reusable materials, minimizing the
volume of high-level waste. Secure storage facilities, such as
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deep geological repositories, provide safe containment for

long-lived radioactive waste. Ongoing research explores
innovative disposal methods, like advanced transmutation
processes, to reduce the toxicity and longevity of nuclear
waste. International cooperation ensures responsible waste
management practices, fostering a global approach to this
challenge. Stricter regulations, public engagement, and
transparent communication are essential to build trust and
garner support for effective nuclear waste management
strategies, promoting environmental stewardship and safety.

21. Promoting nuclear non-proliferation is vital for global

security. International treaties, such as the Treaty on the Non-
Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), play a key role in
preventing the spread of nuclear weapons. Strengthening
verification mechanisms and ensuring compliance with
disarmament commitments enhance trust among nations.
Encouraging peaceful uses of nuclear technology through
international collaborations and assistance programs fosters
cooperation. Diplomatic efforts, multilateral dialogues, and
conflict resolution initiatives contribute to regional stability,
reducing incentives for nuclear weapons development.
Additionally, fostering a culture of transparency, promoting
disarmament education, and addressing underlying geopolitical
tensions are essential for building a world free from the threat
of nuclear proliferation.

22. Updating existing nuclear laws is crucial to address

evolving challenges and opportunities. Revisions should
incorporate advancements in technology, safety standards, and
international cooperation. Empowering regulatory bodies with
enhanced authority, resources, and expertise ensures effective
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oversight. Clear guidelines for licensing, safety assessments,

and emergency response bolster public confidence.
Collaboration with the nuclear industry facilitates a balance
between innovation and compliance. Moreover, aligning
national regulations with international norms fosters
harmonized global practices. Strengthening legal frameworks
also supports non-proliferation efforts and encourages
responsible nuclear development, contributing to a safer, more
sustainable nuclear landscape.

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