Question bank: Nuclear Energy: Review

Nuclear energy has been widely discussed as an alternative to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate climate change. However, its implementation faces significant challenges due to safety issues and radioactive waste management. Considering the current global energy landscape, discuss the necessary conditions for nuclear energy to be effectively used as a clean and safe energy source. Evaluate, based on concrete examples, how the management of radioactive waste and the safety of nuclear facilities are determining factors for public acceptance and long-term sustainability of this form of energy. Additionally, analyze how geopolitics influences the adoption of nuclear energy in different countries, highlighting the discrepancies between security policies and perceived risks globally.

Nuclear energy is an important source of energy in several countries, being used for peaceful purposes, such as electricity generation, and also for military purposes. However, this form of energy also raises concerns regarding its socio-environmental and security impacts. Considering the use of nuclear energy, analyze and critically evaluate the positive and negative aspects of this energy source in relation to socio-environmental impacts and consequences for local populations, including traditional communities. Additionally, explain what should be the commitment of countries to the exploration of this energy to ensure global sustainability and security.

Nuclear energy has generated heated debates about its risks and benefits, especially regarding the economic and socio-environmental impacts. Based on your knowledge of nuclear energy and considering the exploitation of natural resources in different environments, analyze and critically evaluate (1) the possible economic and socio-environmental impacts involved in the installation and operation of a nuclear power plant; (2) the relevance of the participation of local communities, including indigenous peoples, quilombolas, and other traditional communities, in decisions about the use of this energy; and (3) the possible actions that can be implemented to ensure the sustainability and safety of the areas affected by this energy activity.

Which of the following statements about nuclear energy is correct regarding its socio-environmental impacts?

Brazil is one of the few countries in Latin America to have nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. The history of this development begins in the 1950s, when the Brazilian government created the National Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN) with the purpose of conducting research in the area. In 1957, the Brazilian government signed an agreement with the French government for the development of a nuclear power plant. What was the name of this plant?