Topic:
Country: Australia
Delegate Name: Robert/RJ Langen
United Nations International Atomic Energy Agency
The Role of Nuclear Energy in Reducing Fossil Fuel Reliance
Australia
Robert/RJ Langen
Forest Hills Northern High School
The world is currently facing the dual challenge of producing more and more energy for the growing industrialization of countries such as India while trying to reduce carbon emissions. Nuclear energy is one of the most promising alternatives to high carbon emission-releasing fuels like coal. As a country highly reliant on fossil fuels, Australia realizes the need to transition to a more sustainable energy source.
Australia believes nuclear energy has many advantages that make it better than fossil fuels. First, it is a low-carbon energy source that emits no greenhouse gases and can therefore help many countries meet their greenhouse gas goals. Second, nuclear power produces vast amounts of clean and affordable energy. Finally, nuclear energy is statistically one of the safest ways to produce energy in the world
Australia is well-positioned to take full advantage of the potential benefits of nuclear energy given that we have one of the largest reserves of uranium in the world. We have already displaced 395 million tons of carbon dioxide each year through our uranium exports. With our resources, Australia has the potential to become the leading provider of uranium to countries seeking to transition to nuclear energy.
Australia must reaffirm that we cannot blindly provide countries with uranium without considering the risks that come with nuclear power. Nuclear power can result in accidents, such as the Fukushima disaster in Japan. This event demonstrated the need to take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of nuclear power plants. Furthermore, Australia is concerned with the safe disposal of the very dangerous nuclear waste that is produced by nuclear power plants.
However, despite the risks associated with nuclear energy, Australia believes that the benefits of nuclear energy can make up for the negatives in certain scenarios. Australia believes that in safe, stable environments, nuclear energy can be used to reduce greenhouse gasses and reduce countries’ dependence on fossil fuels. This is why Australia supports responsible development and the use of nuclear energy as part of an approach to tackling climate change.
To conclude, Australia recognizes the role of nuclear energy in reducing fossil fuel reliance and addressing climate change. We also recognize the risks associated with nuclear power. With proper safety measures and responsible development, the benefits of nuclear power can outweigh the risks in some scenarios. Australia is committed to exploring the potential of nuclear energy as part of a multi-pronged approach to reducing fossil fuel reliance.
