The document discusses issues related to nuclear energy as a solution to climate change. It summarizes Sierra Club's position opposing new nuclear reactors until adequate policies are in place to curb energy overuse and growth. It also notes concerns about nuclear waste storage, mining and enrichment risks, aging reactors, and accidents like Chernobyl and Fukushima.

1. Nuclear Energy: A Solution to Climate Change or A Dangerous Distraction? Shahla Werner, Sierra Club – John Muir Chapter 222 South Hamilton St, #1, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 256-0565 http://wisconsin.sierraclub.org [email_address]

6. Carbon Dioxide and Climate Change Carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel burning and deforestation are major causes of climate change since 1750. The current 386 PPM of CO2 in the atmosphere is the highest level it has been in the past 650,000 years. Although other greenhouse gases like methane may have more heat trapping potential, they are far less abundant in the atmosphere and their retention time is far shorter than CO2.

7. Top Carbon Dioxide Emitters Although China now emits more CO2 than the US, their per capita emissions are 4.6 tons/capita vs our 19.6

12. Uranium Mining Risks 25 tons of uranium are needed to fuel a reactor for a year. This requires 500,000 tons of waste rock and 100,000 tons of mill tailings. Tailings contain uranium, thorium, radium, polonium, and emit radon-222. They remain toxic for thousands of years. Contamination of local water supplies around uranium mines and processing plants has been documented in Brazil, Colorado, Texas, Australia, Namibia and many other sites. - David Thorpe, Guardian UK , December 2008.

14. Uranium Enrichment: Same Process for Energy and Weapons There is global concern over Iran’s efforts to enrich Uranium (currently at 7%). 90% U-235 is required for weapons. A “nuclear renaissance” could result in more nuclear weapons worldwide.