Nuclear Energy and the Kyoto Protocol

Description

The implementation of the Kyoto Protocol and the application of its "flexible mechanisms" are at the forefront of energy policy debates in most OECD countries. The potential role of nuclear energy in this context is viewed very differently and assessed against various criteria by the range of stakeholders in governments and civil society according to their interests and priorities. This book provides key facts concerning nuclear energy and the Kyoto Protocol. It highlights the challenges and opportunities for the future development of nuclear energy in the context of implementing the Kyoto Protocol, and more broadly in alleviating the risks of global climate change.  Read more... Foreword -- Executive Summary -- 1. Introduction -- 2. Global warming and its consequences -- 3. Evolution of greenhouse gas emissions and concentrations in the atmosphere -- 4. CO2 emission reductions by currently operating nuclearpower plants -- 5. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change -- 6. The Kyoto Protocol -- 7. Joint implementation and the clean development mechanism -- 8. Emissions trading and the value of carbon -- 9. Beyond 2008-2012 -- 10. Low-carbon emitting electricity generation options -- Appendix: Country categories under the UNFCCC -- References