Notwithstanding its stated intent to invest in renewable energy, any continuation or expansion of nuclear power anywhere in the world involves risk, potentially serious: the repercussions of the Fukushima nuclear meltdowns are far more damaging than is generally known as concerns grow over the wellbeing of the Pacific and air contamination affecting even the United States let alone much of Japan. However well-built a nuclear plant (and many of them are not safe), the intervention of nature can cause irretrievable damage, as we are seeing now.
However, reviewing the past is not helpful if it is for recrimination or judgment, but can be so for the lessons it teaches us. There are many lessons from Fukushima, in particular the need to protect the planet using the safest and most environmentally-friendly means possible, and as soon as possible. The indicators of the need to switch to renewables have been visible for decades, and even now the plans, in the UK, are incoherent and unco-ordinated, lacking strategy and investment – which is why nuclear resources are needed for years to come.
Given will and determination, focusing on long term strategy rather than short term expediency, power from natural sources could predominate globally within a decade – look what happens during a major war to ensure the speedy provision of equipment: it is done. This is a war of another kind, a battle for the sustainability of our planet and humanity. Why can’t people see that?]]>
