Nuclear power generation is a non-combustion process and therefore does not create greenhouse gases, although it does use non-renewable resources. The treatment and disposal of nuclear waste is difficult and expensive and poses risks of radioactive contamination.

Radioactive waste needs to be handled with care for thousands of years. Globally there are over 400 nuclear power stations and at least 30 accidents have leaked radiation causing cancers, congenital defects, leukemia, premature aging and death.

Commercial nuclear power generates 17% of the world's electricity but safety worries together with decommissioning plants has slowed down the growth of this industry. In a DTI policy statement, 1998, the government 'sees no economic case at present for building any new nuclear power stations'.