Summary
Why is nuclear energy in Asia accepted as part of the solution to power shortages and environmental pollution, whilst still regarded with suspicion in Europe and North America? The majority of new nuclear power stations are being built in Asia, 36 were completed or underway in 2010. Nuclear power is seen as one among many technologies that might assist in dealing with the twin challenges of energy shortage and climate change. The contributors to this book explain why and how five countries in the Asia region (Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, China and India) have initiated and developed their nuclear energy programs. They demonstrate what challenges these countries face today, what the domestic and international implications of their rapid expansion of nuclear energy capacities are, and what the prospects for future development may be. The case study of Australia as a major uranium supplier is also explored.