Topic:
Country: Switzerland
Delegate Name: Akshat Jain
Committee: United Nations International Atomic Energy Agency
Topic: The Role of Nuclear Energy in Reducing Fossil Fuel Reliance
Country: Switzerland
Name: Akshat Jain
School: Forest Hills Northern High School
The issue of reducing fossil fuel reliance has become important, especially in light of the fight against climate change. The burning of fossil fuels creates carbon dioxide which negatively contributes to climate change. Switzerland is a country that has a long-standing commitment to renewable energy sources. However, it also recognizes the need for various energy sources not limited to the use of nuclear energy. As of 2021, Switzerland has five nuclear power plants, which supply approximately one-third of Switzerland’s electricity needs. Despite its reliance on nuclear energy, Switzerland is committed to ensuring the safety and security of its nuclear installations.
Switzerland recognizes that nuclear energy can play a significant role in reducing fossil fuel reliance. Nuclear energy is a low-carbon energy source that can produce large amounts of electricity without emitting greenhouse gasses. Furthermore, it is a reliable and stable source of energy that can supplement intermittent renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power. However, Switzerland understands that nuclear energy is not without risks. Switzerland is committed to ensuring the safety and security of its nuclear installations as well as the responsible management of nuclear waste. Switzerland supports the highest safety and security standards for nuclear energy and believes that international cooperation is crucial in ensuring nuclear energy’s safe and responsible use. Switzerland also recognizes the importance of investing in renewable energy sources as these sources reduce fossil fuel reliance and serve as a greater, more long-term source of renewable energy. Switzerland supports the development and implementation of renewable energy technologies such as wind, solar, and hydropower.
Switzerland acknowledges the great advantage of using nuclear energy as a means of reducing fossil fuel reliance, yet notes the great risk that atomic energy, if misused, would have on the people, environment, and world as a whole. Switzerland advocates for the safe use of nuclear energy and supports the creation of stronger regulations. Switzerland also believes that the use of this nuclear energy is less sustainable than other uses of renewable energy, yet believes that atomic energy coupled with other forms of renewable energy could be the most effective.
