ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces nuclear power within its present and projected global energy generation policy contexts, in terms of passive and active safety, economic viability, environmental sustainability, technical reliability, capacity for supply certainty, technological advantages and public acceptance and support. Each of the elements of nuclear power as a viable and feasible large-scale energy source will be reviewed in outline as interdependent variables influencing political decision makers both today and into the future. The International Atomic Energy Agency, which carries responsibility for the operation of the multilateral Convention on Nuclear Safety, has in recent years also developed a Nuclear Event Web-based System providing a dedicated online facility for rapid and secure reporting of all nuclear related accidents and other incidents with safety implications. The 2012 report prepared by the Environmental Directorate of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, OECD entitled Environmental Outlook to 2050: The Consequences of Inaction' makes startling reading.
