Nuclear experts adopt position statements
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Nuclear Power: A Leading Strategy to Reduce Oil Imports: Moving to the use of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles for transportation offers the possibility of a smooth transition from today's oil-based vehicle transport system to one that increasingly uses electricity. For instance, if one-third of U.S. motor vehicles were plug-in hybrids - a practical goal by 2020 - we could reduce our use of oil for motor transportation by 25% from today's levels, sharply reducing the need for oil imports. A significant reduction in CO2 emissions can also result as electricity use increases. A clear practical approach to generating electricity that is capable of economically providing the large quantities of additional energy required while minimizing environmental effects is nuclear power.
The recognition of this important potential role of nuclear power in transportation strengthens the need to ensure that nuclear technology becomes a central building block toward a secure, sustainable energy future for the nation.
The Societal Benefits of Radiation: The Society believes that the benefits to the public of uses of radiation greatly overbalance the risks. Radioisotopes and other radiation sources are more widespread and important in the U.S. economy than is generally understood. Beneficial uses of radiation include diagnostic and therapeutic medicine; sterilizing medical supplies; gauging and imaging sheet steel and paper; inspecting welds and airline baggage; detecting smoke; illuminating signs; and powering space probes.
All these benefits are delivered routinely and safely. The Society is concerned that the benefits of radiation are often overshadowed by fears resulting from misunderstanding and misinformation, and urges improved education and discussion of the technical and policy issues involved in the productive and safe uses of this indispensable technology.
