As consequences of the catastrophe at Japan's Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant continue to unfold, opposition groups have reignited the debate about the viability of nuclear energy as a power source.
Despite past support for the technology, the recent crisis is drawing a large amount of attention to safety concerns and risks posed by nuclear plants. Although the incident is the first reactor meltdown since Chernobyl in 1986, which was preceded only by Three Mile Island in 1979, critics argue that nuclear planners overall do not appreciate the multitude of circumstances which can trigger a disaster. Countries throughout the world have begun reevaluating their plans to construct and maintain nuclear power plants.
"[Fukushima] has revived a set of fears that have lain somewhat dormant," said Kathryn Neely, associate professor of science, technology and society in the Engineering School. "Prior to this disaster, people had focused more on the disadvantages associated with gas and oil fuel systems and had begun to appreciate the comparative benefits of nuclear power."
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