Global Action And Energy Conservation And Clumate Change

Question 1

The Brundtland report defines sustainability as ‘the ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising 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

Answer 1

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

Question 2

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

Answer 2

Reference should be made to the relative energy densities of a fossil fuel, renewable source and nuclear source.

Answers should provide detail of how fossil fuels and renewable sources compare to nuclear energy

Question 3

In October 2013 the UK government announced the construction of a new nuclear power station. The power station is scheduled to begin supplying energy in 2023

Discuss the use of nuclear power stations as a variable alternative to coal fired power stations. Your discussion should focus on two different factors

Answer 3

1. Energy density: nuclear fuels have a very high energy density so very small quantities are required. This reduces transport and storage requirements.
2. Greenhouse gas emissions: nuclear power stations produce little to no greenhouse gases so they do not contribute to global warming. They do not rely on combustion to release energy.
3. Cost: the cost of building nuclear power stations is very high. The cost of the fuel is low because small quantities are required.
4. Safety: if here is an accident, large amounts of radioactive material could be released into the environment.
5. 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 for health thousands of years later.