Environmental and Safety Concerns for Nuclear Power Generation in Ghana

Abstract

Misconception about nuclear reactor safety has led several nuclear power projects to be abandoned. Safety was taken into consideration even before the first fission chain reaction was initiated. These safety precautions coupled with half a century of experience in nuclear power generation have made nuclear power the best choice for base load electricity generation in several countries across the globe. The storage of nuclear waste has been extensively studied over the years and several opportunities of fuel disposal and treatment have engineered the industrial growth of several countries. Nuclear power production has reduced the carbon emissions of several countries. The history of nuclear reactor safety and the management of nuclear waste are discussed along with the comparison with other sources of electricity to give a clear reason for the promotion of nuclear power programme in Ghana. The experiences of safety practices currently observed at Ghana Research Reactor-1 Centre are also discussed. The effects of nuclear waste as well as their treatment are discussed to indicate the preparedness of nuclear scientists to adequately protect the public from any exposure to radiation from the waste. The international and local regulations that are available for ensuring safe nuclear practice are also discussed.