The role of nuclear energy in reducing carbon dioxide emissions

Nuclear energy plays an important role in reducing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions since it allows the production of large amounts of electricity without the direct combustion of fossil fuels. Unlike coal and gas-fired power plants, nuclear power plants do not emit CO₂ during the operation, making them a significant factor in the fight against climate change. Furthermore, unlike renewable sources that depend on weather conditions, nuclear energy provides a stable and reliable source of electricity generation. Although there are challenges, such as solutions for radioactive waste and high initial costs, advancements in technology, particularly the development of fourth-generation reactors and small modular reactors, could further enhance the sustainability of this energy source. In combination with renewable sources, nuclear energy can contribute to reducing global fossil fuel consumption and facilitate the transition to a low-carbon economy.

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Publication Details

Published
2025-01-01
DOI
https://doi.org/10.5937/pim25235g
Primary Topic
Nuclear and radioactivity studies
Type
article
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article

The role of nuclear energy in reducing carbon dioxide emissions

Ivan Gašić, Marko Beljin
Nuclear and radioactivity studies
article

The role of nuclear energy in reducing carbon dioxide emissions

Ivan Gašić, Marko Beljin
article en

Abstract

Nuclear energy plays an important role in reducing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions since it allows the production of large amounts of electricity without the direct combustion of fossil fuels. Unlike coal and gas-fired power plants, nuclear power plants do not emit CO₂ during the operation, making them a significant factor in the fight against climate change. Furthermore, unlike renewable sources that depend on weather conditions, nuclear energy provides a stable and reliable source of electricity generation. Although there are challenges, such as solutions for radioactive waste and high initial costs, advancements in technology, particularly the development of fourth-generation reactors and small modular reactors, could further enhance the sustainability of this energy source. In combination with renewable sources, nuclear energy can contribute to reducing global fossil fuel consumption and facilitate the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Openalex Percentile: Top 83%
Nuclear and radioactivity studies
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