×

Radioactive waste facility is essential

Radioactive waste will not go away, as much as President Barack Obama tries to ignore the problem. Nearly one-fifth of the electricity generated in the United States comes from nuclear power plants.

During the past four decades, the plants have produced nearly 72,000 metric tons of used radioactive fuel. As matters stand, it and radioactive waste from other sources are stored in a hodge-podge of “temporary” sites throughout the country. West Virginia is one of the few states without such a site; Ohio is home to 1,240 tons of radioactive waste.

During his time as Senate Majority Leader, Sen. Harry Reid, D-Nev., blocked a plan for a national radioactive waste repository at Yucca Mountain, Nev. Obama backed him.

Included in a spending bill approved by the House of Representatives is money to resume work at Yucca Mountain. Over Obama’s objection, if necessary, the project should proceed. A true “all of the above” energy policy requires a safe place to store radioactive waste.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

Starting at $4.39/week.

Subscribe Today