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What is nuclear energy?

Nuclear energy is a type of energy that comes from splitting atoms of radioactive materials like uranium.

What is this energy used for?

Nuclear energy is mainly used to make electricity.

Why do people want to use nuclear energy?

• Oil is going to run out by 2030 and gas by 2045, so we need to find another major source of energy.

• Nuclear power plants do not create nasty gases that go into the atmosphere, so they help to keep the air clean.

• It helps to prevent acid rain.

So why don't we all start using nuclear energy?

• It costs a lot of money to build a nuclear power station.

• Making nuclear energy means we end up with a waste product called nuclear waste. This is very dangerous to humans and the environment.

• There is no completely safe way to store the waste from nuclear power stations.

• People might use nuclear power for the wrong things, like making nuclear weapons.

What can you do to help?

Ask your parents to:

• Install a solar-powered water heater in your home.

• Contact their energy retailer and find out about using 100% renewable energy for your household's electricity.

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Nuclear energy doesn’t produce any harmful gases, but it can seriously harm us and the environment. Let's focus on using renewable energy more.