You are correct about having a diversified research strategy. I was thinking that a shift to nuclear power is something that can be done now, with minimal research required, giving us the time we need to then shift to truly renewable resources.
Part of our getting our heads straight about nuclear energy - we don't *need* to do research on recycling, as we already know how, and have known for decades. Recycling was banned by an Executive Order by Jimmy Carter, for security reasons. The logic being that the more hands fuel goes through, the more chance there'd be it'd fall into those of a terrorist.
As for safety - the major issue with nuclear plants, to be honest, is our own regulation. The way the system works, each and every nuclear plant is a unique one-off design, with its own quirks and issues.
Contrast this with the French, who get over 75% of their electricity from nuclear plants. They have three well, tested designs. When they train a technician, he's useful all over the country. When they build a spare part, is is useful all over the country. I know it would gall us to learn from teh French, but in this case, we *really* can. They know nuclear power.
no subject
Part of our getting our heads straight about nuclear energy - we don't *need* to do research on recycling, as we already know how, and have known for decades. Recycling was banned by an Executive Order by Jimmy Carter, for security reasons. The logic being that the more hands fuel goes through, the more chance there'd be it'd fall into those of a terrorist.
As for safety - the major issue with nuclear plants, to be honest, is our own regulation. The way the system works, each and every nuclear plant is a unique one-off design, with its own quirks and issues.
Contrast this with the French, who get over 75% of their electricity from nuclear plants. They have three well, tested designs. When they train a technician, he's useful all over the country. When they build a spare part, is is useful all over the country. I know it would gall us to learn from teh French, but in this case, we *really* can. They know nuclear power.