This is a conversation about nuclear power (hit play to listen to interview). In recent years I’ve heard it called good. Clean. Even green! I was confused. What happened? When and how did it become safe, clean, and efficient?
Short answer: it didn’t.
I talked with Rachel DiNitto, author of the book, Fukushima Fiction. She is a professor of Japanese Literature at the University of Oregon.
To come to an understanding about nuclear energy, the best advice I heard today was this: take the time to listen to the communities who have been harmed by nuclear energy. Listen to their stories, follow the facts, and come to your own conclusions.
In the U.S., Navajo communities have suffered greatly.
Uranium mining is not clean, healthy, or safe.
Thank you for listening!
For further reference:
The 7 reasons why nuclear energy is not the answer to solve climate change
15 minute Interview with David Kraft, (begins at 2:25) Director, Nuclear Energy Information Service
38 minute Interview with Maggie and Arnie Gundersen (begins at 1:05) from Fairewinds Energy Education
38 minutes: “The Legacy of Uranium Mining and Nuclear on Indigenous Peoples Land” Interview with Leona Morgan, (begins at 1:40) Navajo anti-nuclear activist
Let's talk about nuclear energy