Nuclear power plants use uranium as fuel. The process of mining uranium releases high amounts of carbon dioxide into the environment. Carbon dioxide is also released into the environment when new nuclear power plants are built. Finally, the transport of radioactive waste also causes carbon dioxide emissions.
Unlike fossil fuel-fired power plants, nuclear reactors do not produce air pollution or carbon dioxide while operating. However, the processes for mining and refining uranium ore and making reactor fuel all require large amounts of energy.Jan 15, 2020
uranium fuel to produce steam for generating electricity. This process changes uranium into other radioactive materials. If a nuclear power plant accident occurs, heat and pressure build up, and the steam, along with the radioactive materials, may be released.
