New York, NY -- August 27, 2008. Nuclear energy is the cleanest source of electrical power available today, according to an analysis by scientists associated with the American Council on Science and Health (ACSH). Their main points are summarized in the brochure Nuclear Energy and Health: What's the Story?
Not only can nuclear fission (the process by which atomic energy is released) provide a clean source of energy, it is sustainable far into the future, without causing either environmental degradation or ill effects on human health. ACSH's analysis disproves fear-inspiring stories about leaking radiation, the Chernobyl explosion, and nuclear weapons proliferation spread by anti-nuclear activists.
In fact, the scientists found, there was less radiation-caused damage than originally feared in the case of Chernobyl and no damage from the low level of radioactive material leaked at the Three Mile Island plant in Pennsylvania in 1979. Further, modern nuclear plants are designed with substantially more attention to safety and security than was the case when the Chernobyl reactor was built.
"Considering that nuclear energy has been in wide use for decades -- indeed, it still supplies 20% of our electric power -- it's amazing that these exaggerated fears are still circulating," noted Dr. Elizabeth Whelan, ACSH president. "Indeed, some European countries derive the majority of their electric power from nuclear energy -- with no ill effects," she continued.
To learn more about the benefits and safety of nuclear energy, read Nuclear Energy and Health: What's the Story?
The American Council on Science and Health is an independent, non-profit consumer education organization concerned with issues related to food, nutrition, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, lifestyle, the environment, and health. ACSH, directed and advised by a consortium of over 350 physicians and scientists, urges Americans to focus their efforts on things that matter -- such as maintaining a healthy body weight and not smoking -- rather than the countless pieces of nonsensical or trivial health advice that fill the news.
Contact: ACSH President Dr. Elizabeth Whelan at 212-362-7044 x235 or WhelanE@acsh.org
