Friends of the Earth Scotland

Friends of the Earth Scotland is an organization campaigning to bring about renewable energy, better public transportation, and a cleaner environment. In the following viewpoint, the organization argues that nuclear power is not a practical alternative to fossil-fuel energy sources in attempting to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions associated with global warming. According to the authors, nuclear power is not cost effective in reducing carbon dioxide emissions, poses serious problems to environmental safety, and contributes carbon dioxide to the atmosphere through uranium mining and plant construction.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. In comparison to renewable energy, how much more carbon dioxide per unit of energy produced does nuclear power release into the atmosphere, in the authors’ opinion?
2. According to the authors, where did a...