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Safe alternatives to nuclear power do exist, Mr Blair
27 June 2006
Responding to Tony Blair's declaration today that he would take "a lot of convincing" that Britain could supply its energy requirements without nuclear power, Friends of the Earth energy campaigner, Roger Higman said:
"Mr Blair should listen to his own environmental advisors. Earlier this year the Sustainable Development Commission told him that it is possible to meet the UK's energy needs without nuclear power. Our own research demonstrates this as well.
"Nuclear power is extremely dangerous and leaves a toxic legacy that will remain a major threat for many thousands of years. Furthermore, building more reactors will simply encourage other countries around the world to go down the same route. And if this happens it will make the world a far more perilous place.
"Clean and safe solutions already exist. By investing in renewable energy, cutting energy waste and ensuring that fossil fuels are used more efficiently, the UK could lead the world in developing a safe, low-carbon, nuclear-free future."
Notes
Earlier this year Friends of the Earth produced a peer-reviewed - report showing that the UK can meet its electricity needs, reduce the need for imported natural gas, and tackle climate change without a new nuclear power programme:
New research shows a bright energy future is possible
Friends of the Earth is also calling on the Government to back a new climate change law - called for by Friends of the Earth's The Big Ask campaign - obliging successive Government's to make annual reductions in carbon dioxide emissions. A new climate change law already has the backing of most MPs and 75 per cent of the public.
www.thebigask.com
Friends of the Earth's nuclear briefing (PDF)
Nuclear Power Won't Fix It: Sustainable Development Commission press release
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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Jun 2008
