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Diminishing oil supplies, global warming due to the use of fossil fuels, persistent strife in the Middle East, and increasing demands for energy have led to the search for additional energy sources. Many feel that a significant expansion of nuclear power will be necessary to meet projected needs. However, although nuclear power has been produced commercially for over thirty years, no country has yet found a permanent solution for the disposal of high-level nuclear waste. Nuclear Waste Stalemate examines the complex political, legal, and scientific issues relating to the disposal of that waste.The often controversial issues discussed here include the power of governors to veto placement of high-level nuclear waste repositories in their states, the use of incentives for spent-fuel acceptance, the use of Indian reservations as host sites, control of a Nuclear Waste Fund, and whether a state without a nuclear reactor should be required to accept spent fuel. The scientific issues include monitored surface storage versus permanent geological disposal, burial above or below the water table, the probability of serious seismic and volcanic events, and long-term hazard assessment. Nuclear Waste Stalemate is unique in its discussion of the issues related to nuclear waste storage. Because it is both comprehensive and fair minded, it will be useful to readers on all sides of the debate. More Reviews and Recommendations Robert Vandenbosch is emeritus professor of chemistry at the University of Washington. |
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