Life-cycle analysis is a mechanism for measuring the total environmental impact of various energy sources. Environmental researchers have evaluated total emissions from various energy sources. This includes emissions resulting from all aspects of each energy source—construction, operation, dismantling and disposal. The life-cycle impact of nuclear energy is among the lowest of any form of electricity generation, comparable with renewable technologies such as wind and solar power.

Clean Water and Safe Haven for Wildlife
Protecting the environment extends to safely managing used fuel, protecting water quality and preserving—even improving—habitat for plants and wildlife, including some endangered species.

The companies that operate nuclear power plants honor and protect the environment in all these ways, under strict regulations and through many voluntary programs. Cooling water discharged from a nuclear plant contains no harmful pollutants, and it meets federal Clean Water Act requirements and state standards for temperature and mineral content.

Nuclear power plants are so clean and safe that they provide excellent habitats for wildlife and plants. All companies that operate nuclear power plants have extensive environmental programs. Many augment these programs with voluntary initiatives to enhance natural habitats at nuclear reactor sites. For example, some companies have developed environmentally rich wetlands, providing better nesting areas for waterfowl and other birds; new habitats for fish; and sanctuaries for other wildlife, flowers and grasses.

“Residents” at power reactor sites include many endangered and protected species, such as bald eagles, manatees, crocodiles, blue crabs, oysters and fish. Several species of endangered plant life also find refuge at nuclear plant sites.

The environmental activities conducted by nuclear companies have been recognized by the nation’s best-known environmental organizations, including the Audubon Society, Ducks Unlimited, the National Wildlife Federation, the Nature Conservancy, Trout Unlimited, the Wildlife Habitat Council, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

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