Nuclear Energy Now to Mitigate Climate Change

Dr. Michael Mallary of Seagate, who regaled us earlier this season with his talk on "Our Improbable Universe," is back to speak about another passion of his: the scientific arguments for nuclear energy now. Dr. Mallary notes that the scientists on the Inter-Governmental Panel on Climate Change reached a consensus that assigns 95% confidence to the conclusions that significant climate change has already happened, and that human activities are responsible for most of it. NASA’s well respected and chronically censored climatologist, Dr. James Hansen, has warned of passing “tipping points” if reductions in carbon dioxide emission are not achieved in the next decade. Though significant reductions can be achieved with conservation and renewable energy sources, Dr. Mallary believes that these cannot provide the “base line” power that is necessary in order to phase out fossil fuel electric power generation. Only nuclear energy can fill this need for off the shelf carbon-free electricity. The hazards, costs, and concerns that are identified by opponents of nuclear energy will be discussed and shown to be more tractable than the climatic disaster that looms over our children.

Whether you agree or disagree with this view, it promises to be an interesting presentation followed by a rousing discussion. Are you ready for a nuclear power plant in your back yard? Come and join in the discussion. We hope to see you there!

Tim Palucka and Angela Stabryla, co-organizers

Café Scientifique Pittsburgh