The week to 1st October, in nuclear and climate news

For a change, I digress from the usual themes. While the media fixes on Trump’s and Kim’s nuclear threats, a lot of other things go on quietly. For example, the Trump attack on workers’ rights, –on worker safety, – on public health and environmental protection. – on refugees, Much as I dislike joining in the media fervor for watching Trump, it becomes almost a necessity, because we are witnessing the most extraordinary dismantling of all government policy for the public good. It is as if it’s all happening under the cover of our angst about North Korea.

The rise of Germany’s right wing party, adopting the Trump tactics, has brought a fascist element into the German Bundestag, and signifies the new importance of populist politics in Europe.

1461 scientists speak up for saving Australia’ oceans

NUCLEAR International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons comes at a historic moment of brinkmanship. Genocide, Crimes Against Humanity in North Korea – the meaning of Trump’s threats. There is a diplomatic way to resolve the North Korea nuclear crisis. Leaders of USA and North Korea continue to trade threats and insults. North Korean threats – very good for the underground nuclear bomb shelter sales

Six international academics refute the attack on renewable energy by Ben Heard and others.

Leukemia risk increased by radioactive iodine treatment for thyroid cancer.

CLIMATE. Half-way to Catastrophe — Global Hothouse Extinction to be Triggered by or Before 2100 Without Rapid Emissions Cuts. Christian leaders make the moral case for climate action. Global carbon emissions remained static in 2016 – (one bit of welcome news). Hundreds of $billions a year – the hidden costs of climate change.

USA.

Most Americans oppose pre-emptive strike on North Korea: they trust military, not Trump. Chance of nuclear war with North Korea? 10% Conventional war 20-30% – says ex NAT O military chief. Former CIA analyst says that USA has no other choice: must accept a nuclear North Korea . Hawaii residents ordered to ‘prepare for North Korea nuclear attack’.
USA Energy Secretary Perry out to force Americans to buy costly nuclear and coal power, not renewables. America’s Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) should reject Rick Perry’s outrageous plan to bail out coal and nuclear industries.
SanOnofre’s unique and dangerous state – of Stranded Nuclear Wastes.
Prediction of collapse in roof at nuclear Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP).
South Carolina Attorney General calls for criminal probe of Scana Corp’s nuclear project. Lawsuit names 12 top SCANA nuclear officials, seeks to recover over $21 million in bonuses.
Puerto Rico could go 100% renewable energy.

NORTH KOREA. North Korea claims “the Right to Shoot Down U.S. Warplanes“. A worse fear? A nuclear accident in North Korea, – and it could trigger a nuclear war.

EUROPE. European Commission to invest €222 to promote Europe’s transition to clean energy.

UK.

UK government intransigent – pursues Hinkley nuclear project despite rise of much cheaper offshore wind energy. Time to cancel Britain’s Hinkley Point C nuclear power project – says energy expert.
British govt reveals a new record for renewable energy generation. Britain’s new solar farm to sell energy to the grid, without government subsidy .
Concern over plan to dump 300,000 tonnes of potentially radioactive mud into the sea off Cardiff. Sellafield nuclear processes trashing the River Hehen, home to endangered fresh water pearl mussels.
Britain terminates nuclear decommissioning contract for Cavendish Fluor Partnership (CFP). Britain’s Small Modular Nuclear Reactors – really happening, or vapourware?

IRAN. Iran’s foreign minister calls on Europe to support nuclear deal, and defy USA ‘s plan to sink the deal. Iran nuclear deal is best option, says Israeli general.

JAPAN. A Further Delay in the Cleanup At Japan’s Fukushima Nuclear Plant. Fukushima Decontamination Work Racket Yakuza Arrested. Chiba court recognizes nuke disaster evacuees’ ‘loss of hometown’ for first time. Dozens of Japanese towns choosing decentralised solar energy, with microgrids.

INDIA. India-USA civil nuclear cooperation agreement is really just a weapons marketing deal.

IRAQ. Iraq wants nuclear reactors: (does that fill you with confidence?)

UKRAINE. Holtec planning to build small nuclear reactors in Ukraine.

GERMANY. New find points to Hitler’s project towards a nuclear bomb.