Clive Bibby: The Clayton’s nuclear argument

The problem with arguments that had their gestation in a bygone era is that the world moves on and the parameters used to justify a particular policy that became popular at the time either evaporate or become less relevant in the modern age. 

In my humble opinion, our government’s current nuclear and climate change policies are two examples of outdated theories that need reappraisal.

While it is accepted that there remain good reasons why we should retain parts of both, it is sheer madness to continue supporting those parts that have passed their “use by dates.”

For example: It has become common knowledge that the possibility of a nuclear plant meltdown is much less of a threat to humanity these days simply because the engineers have found ways to build them that pretty much ensures they can operate efficiently and safely in most environments. And they have also found ways to store the waste material that will be less likely to endanger future generations. It is interesting to note that some countries are offering their own remote properties as a storage facility for nuclear waste from around the world. Our nearest neighbour Australia is one of them. The current status of a nuclear energy option, especially in a world obsessed with eliminating traditional supply systems that are regarded as atmospheric polluters begs the question - why are more countries like ourselves not including nuclear energy as an option suited to our environment. 

It is almost irresponsible for governments to spend huge amounts of scarce financial resources on clean energy alternatives that are much less efficient and will be much more expensive in the long run to a nuclear option built for purpose. 

We need to be sensible about what aspects of the nuclear argument are non-negotiable.

The dark side of nuclear energy is obviously its potential use in wars that have yet to be fought. Unfortunately, the world must face the fact that the genie is already out of the bottle on this one and it will require input from every nation on the planet to ensure that these weapons of mass destruction don’t fall into the hands of rogue states who care little about the fate of humanity.

But those concerns shouldn’t limit its use in areas where it has a really effective part to play. 

There is no reason why we here in New Zealand should be the last to consider nuclear in our mix of clean energy options. Previous Kiwi governments who led the world in banning nuclear testing in the Pacific followed by bans on visits to our ports by nuclear powered ships would surely be able to retain their position in history if future governments decided that it is time to make changes to our nuclear policy and by so doing, be amongst the first to achieve our GHG emissions targets by 2050.

Just makes sense.

Clive Bibby is a commentator, consultant, farmer and community leader, who lives in Tolaga Bay.