KYOTO — Japan's nuclear power industry is pushing to get atomic energy on next year's agenda when this nation hosts the Group of Eight summit meetings, saying it is time world leaders recognize the power source as a practical way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
However, those opposed to nuclear power argue that more than 2,000 new atomic plants would have to be built worldwide to replace current fossil fuel plants, resulting in uncontrolled proliferation of nuclear materials and no significant cut in greenhouse gases.
At the conclusion of this year's G8 summit in Germany, world leaders agreed to combat climate change through investment in cost-efficient renewable energy technologies. In particular, they promised to promote international use of clean technologies, biofuel and biomass. Noticeably missing from the final statement was clear-cut support for nuclear power.