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Nuclear Material Disposal an Issue

Nuclear Material Disposal an Issue

The Intelligencer News register By The Intelligencer December 29, 2008

Among the most important – and politically sensitive – questions facing President-elect Barack Obama and the new Congress is disposal of nuclear waste. Because the matter is so controversial, the current Congress and president have not had the courage to address it.

Not much was said about the matter during the presidential election campaign earlier this year – again, because it is such a political hot potato.

The problem involves nuclear waste that comes from a variety of facilities, ranging from health care institutions to nuclear power plants. As matters stand, the radioactive waste is being stored “temporarily” at hundreds of sites throughout the country. The danger in allowing that to continue is obvious. Just one possibility, that terrorists could get their hands on some of the waste and use it as a weapon of mass destruction, is worrisome. Though the waste could not be used to make an atomic device, it could be used in a “dirty bomb” that could spread radioactive material in a wide area…………………….Once Obama takes office, he should make it a priority to either proceed with Yucca Mountain or find another suitable alternative. Doing nothing is simply not prudent.

 

Nuclear Material Disposal an Issue – News, Sports, Jobs – The Intelligencer / Wheeling News-Register

December 29, 2008 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | Uncategorized