This year's earthquake off the northeastern coast of Japan, and the subsequent tsunami, had a devastating effect on that country, including the highly-publicised damage to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. In the days and weeks following the earthquake, press coverage of the plant was intense, with many predicting a catastrophe - especially as some parts of the plant dated back to 1967.
Fears of a 'new Chernobyl' spread across the globe. The fallout from the disaster has included Germany shutting down some of its plants and declaring all will be shut down by 2022. Meanwhile, some environmentalists who had recently begun to support nuclear power as an alternative to fossil fuels are having doubts, or simply reverting to the anti-nuclear position.
With the prospect of oil and gas production declining, with coal widely seen as unacceptable and alternative forms of 'green' energy production seemingly unable to satisfy increasing demands, the nuclear option had looked set for a renaissance.
Will the new political climate allow the expansion of nuclear power that would be required to meet demand? What if any are the barriers to long-term safety? Will scientists be able to convince a sceptical public of the merits of nuclear power over traditional or other 'green' technologies still in their infancy? Are politicians willing to discuss the scientific merits or otherwise of nuclear power more openly, and help develop a balanced approach to political decision-making about energy?
This discussion will be preluded with a short presentation by the science writer Stephen Purver, on the wider effects of the Tōhoku earthquake and subsequent tsunami in March 2011.
This discussion is a satellite event of the prestigious Battle of Ideas 2011 weekend festival of ideas being held on 29 and 30 October 2011, hosted by the Royal College of Art, London. Now in its seventh year, the Battle of Ideas festival comprises 75 debates and satellite discussions confronting society’s big issues and unresolved questions. It affords the opportunity for some clear thinking, rational debate and agenda-setting - above all, it's future-orientated, whilst retaining a healthy regard for the past achievements of humanity.
For the second year, the Manchester Salon is participating in the fabulous Manchester Science Festival, which is celebrating its fifth year. With over 200 events for families and adults, you can expect an exciting nine days of cutting-edge research, the brightest minds and amazing events. You’ll have the chance to delve into immersive experiences, explore the science of the city by foot, join in the debate, enjoy hands-on activities, see awe-inspiring films and much more. Watch out for trailblazers throughout the year and join us at events throughout Greater Manchester during 22 – 30 October 2011.
Discussion Sponsors
Urbanization Architects is a recently founded architectural practice, based in Manchester, currently undertaking a range of commissions in the residential, domestic and commercial sectors.
Urbanization upholds the imperative for the advancement and development of the built environment in order to create the spaces, structures and infrastructure required to support the needs of a progressive society.
PG Stage has a wealth of experience spanning over 30 years in supplying, designing and installing Theatre and Stage Lighting Systems, Sound and AV Systems Design. Based in Manchester, PG Stage undertake projects across Manchester, London and all across the UK as well as overseas, they install systems in a wide range of unique venues; ranging from theatres, to cinemas, to schools, and much more in between.
Being an NICEIC approved company, their fully qualified team are professional, flexible and considerate, providing comprehensive project management right the way through the process.
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