Energy, environment and sustainable development - tough decisions for a democracy
Electricity is recognized to be essential to attaining even minimum modem levels of human welfare in any country. However, where electricity is available, the public shows little concern about where it comes from or what it takes to make sure supply continues to be adequate. In the next century, the world will have to face the difficult decision about the long-term use of plutonium as fuel, and deal with its implications for nonproliferation. What the United States does on this issue will affect all nations, and particularly those around the Pacific Basin. How do responsible leaders set rational priorities in a democracy, when every issue has its vocal advocates and the news media can reach every household? If democracies are to avoid the downside risks of energy shortages, leadership will have to emerge that has the courage to tell the people the truth. That means providing scientific facts and explanations in terms that people can understand.
- OSTI ID:
- 182001
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-940501-; ISSN 0003-018X; TRN: 95:004487-0029
- Journal Information:
- Transactions of the American Nuclear Society, Vol. 70, Issue Suppl.1; Conference: 9. Pacific basin nuclear conference, Sydney (Australia), 1-5 May 1994; Other Information: PBD: 1994
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Popular democracy and waste management
The Citizen Cyberscience Lectures - 1) Mobile phones and Africa: a success story 2) Citizen Problem Solving