With the rise of technological advancements in the field of renewable energy sources, it has been noted that nuclear energy has changed the lives of millions of people, ranging from providing countries with the ability to wipe out their enemies instantaneously to serving as a clean alternative energy source to conventional energy forms. While this shift has both advantages and disadvantages, I believe that its potential advantages far outweigh the risks.
Critics of the widespread use of nuclear energy highlight concerns about its environmental impact. On a global scale, when governments harness the power of nuclear energy in an attempt to provide consumers with a cost-effective energy supply, they often fail to store toxic chemicals that are removed in the filtering process, which damages the environment. This not only increases the volume of contaminated materials ending up in landfills and oceans but also pollutes the air by releasing highly radioactive nuclear waste that contains poisonous chemicals such as uranium and plutonium. This toxic combination is particularly detrimental to individuals living near nuclear plants, who are exposed to excessive radiation, potentially diminishing their overall health and well-being.
Despite the environmental risks, in my view, the transition to nuclear energy has more potential benefits. In an era characterized by the need for global peace and prosperity, the existence of nuclear weapons may force countries to confront the potentially devastating impact of these weapons on the global ecosystem. As a result, this understanding of the consequences of nuclear wars can drive systematic changes in the global political landscape, as the fear of extinction is likely to drive nations towards diplomatic resolutions, cooperative agreements, and peace talks, thereby fostering a collaborative international community where nations work together to address common problems. For example, at a time when countries are already grappling with underlying social issues like war, inequality, injustice, genocide, and poverty, the formation of such international communities could help tackle these pressing challenges, driving global progress toward a more prosperous future.
In conclusion, while nuclear energy presents significant problems associated with environmental risks, I contend that its potential to promote global peace carries more weight.