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Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Japanese radioactivity found in Ireland

Low levels of Radioactivity have been found in Ireland after the devastating explosions at the Fukushima nuclear power plant in northern Japan. This discovery was made by the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII).
Some low levels of Iodine have been found in Ireland and throughout Europe. According to the RPII these levels  will have no health implications. Special actions will not have to been taken due to these low levels.

The institute on a regular basis monitors radioactivity using an air sampler. This is located in Dublin.

What is Nuclear power?
Nuclear power is produced by controlled nuclear reactions. It is the reaction of nuclear fission which heat water to produce steam. This steam generates electricity. It provides 6% of  the worlds energy and 12-13% of the worlds electricity.  The US, France and Japan produce 50% of this electricity.

Nuclear power has seen so much controversy and the debate is ongoing. On one side is the World Nuclear Association and IAEA which believe that Nuclear energy is a sustainable energy. On the other side is Greenpeace International  and NIRS which believe nuclear power poses a threat to people and the environment.

Should we use nuclear power in a balance with renewable energy? or Should we ban nuclear power?

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