September 16, 2019
Username:
 In Nuclear Reactors in Conflict Zones

Topic:
Country: Norway
Delegate Name: Ian Wurfel

Taking into account the power of nuclear reactors, Norway has Noticed several issues on the bases of nuclear reactors within areas of conflict. The implementation of nuclear reactors presents the question of where will nuclear waste be stored? Currently most modern methods of storing such waste have been set to only last a few decades. For obvious reasons they can not be used as a permanent solution. Furthermore, if a conflict erupts in a location known to have a nuclear reactor waste could be a potential source of violence against the opposing side. Moreover, nuclear reactors being destroyed in the event of an attack pose a serious threat to not only the surrounding areas, but the entire well being of all life on planet earth.
Norway does not have any nuclear power plants as of 2023. This eliminates the danger of potential conflict zones containing nuclear power plants since there are none. Moreover, Norway has had several nuclear reactor research facilities stations in 2 locations in Norway. 1 was/is located in Halden (HBWR) which is closed and is on its way to decommission. 3 more were/are located in Kjeller. The nuclear reactor JEEP II has been closed and is also on its way to decommission. Norway has passed legislation regarding the control of nuclear energy such as the 1972 Atomic Energy Act.
Regarding the containment of nuclear power plants inside of conflict zones, Norway would look favorably upon any treaties that protect nuclear power plants from being attacked in times of war. Correspondingly, Norway encourages research performed for the purposes of locating new methods of nuclear waste storage. Norway would like to see more alternatives to nuclear energy being implemented. Such as, solar, wind, and geothermal. Because such methods are cheaper than nuclear energy to construct this makes them more available for less developed nations.