Publication Laka-library:
Mirage & oasis. Energy choices in the age of global warming (costs)
Author | N.E.F |
6-01-0-10-71.pdf | |
Date | 2005 |
Classification | 6.01.0.10/71 (COSTS) |
Front |
From the publication:
Mirage and oasis Energy choices in an age of global warming The trouble with nuclear power and the potential of renewable energy nef is an independent think-and-do tank that inspires and demonstrates real economic well-being. We aim to improve quality of life by promoting innovative solutions that challenge mainstream thinking on economic, environmental and social issues. We work in partnership and put people and the planet first. nef (the new economics foundation) is a registered charity founded in 1986 by the leaders of The Other Economic Summit (TOES), which forced issues such as international debt onto the agenda of the G7/G8 summit meetings. We have taken a lead in helping establish new coalitions and organisations, such as the Jubilee 2000 debt campaign; the Ethical Trading Initiative; the UK Social Investment Forum; and new ways to measure social and environmental well-being. Nuclear power is being promoted as the answer to climate change and energy insecurity. But, as a response to global warming, it is too slow, too expensive and too limited. And in an age of terrorist threats, it is more of a security risk than a solution. Instead, the characteristics of a flexible, safe, secure and climate friendly energy supply system apply to renewable energy. In comparison, it leaves no toxic legacy and is abundant and cheap to harvest both in the UK and globally. Contents Summary 2 Overview 5 Renewable energy technologies: an overview 11 Microrenewable energy: flexible, secure, clean and effective 15 The prospect for nuclear power 25 Nuclear power: what are the real costs? 34 Conclusion 42 Glossary 46 Endnotes 47 Summary Individually renewable energy sources like wind, solar and geothermal could, in theory, meet all of the world’s energy