3.Global Action On Energy Conservation And Climate Change

Question 1

The Brundtland report defines sustainability as ‘the ability to meet the needs of the present without comprising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’. Our Common Future (1987).
With reference to this definition, state the main European, UK and NI government targets with regards to the continued use of fossil fuels as an energy source, as we approach 2020. {3}

Answer 1

Answer to make reference to the following three government targets;

1. 20% cut in greenhouse gas emissions. {1}
2. 20% increase in energy produced using renewable sources. {1}
3. 20% cut in energy consumption. {1}

Question 2

Assess the validity of using nuclear energy as a viable alternative to both fossil fuels and renewable energy sources. {5}

Answer 2

Reference should be made to the relative energy densities of a fossil fuel {1}, renewable source {1} and nuclear source {1}.
Answers should provide details of how fossil fuels {1} and renewable sources {1} compare to nuclear energy.

Question 3

Question; In October 2013 the UK government announced the construction of a new nuclear power station. The power station is scheduled to begin supplying electricity in 2023.
Discuss the use of nuclear power stations as a viable alternative to coal fired power stations. Your discussion should focus on two different factors. {4}

Answer 3

Discussion should focus on any two of the following points;
• Energy density: Nuclear fuels have a very high energy density (compared with coal) so very small quantities are required. This reduces transport and storage requirements.
• Greenhouse gas emissions: Nuclear power stations produce little or no greenhouse gases so they do not contribute to global warming. They do not rely on combustion to release energy (unlike coal).
• Cost: The cost of building (and decommissioning) nuclear power stations is very high (compared with coal fired power stations). The cost of the fuel (uranium) is low because small quantities are required.
• Safety: If there is an accident, large amounts of radioactive material could be released into the environment.
• Health: Nuclear power stations produce radioactive waste which is toxic and must be disposed of and stored very carefully. If this is not done correctly it can cause adverse health effects such as cancer and birth defects. Nuclear waste remains active and is hazardous to health for thousands of years.