Perception of nuclear power associated risks and communication Dissertation

Perception of nuclear power associated risks and communication stratergy - Dissertation Example The current research focuses on public perceptions of nuclear power both within the UK and abroad, namely the pattern of their formation and evolution over time, considering ways of approach to the general public, which would allow of better acceptance of this energy source; with the overall aim to suggest starting points for further discussion about how the public perceptions of nuclear power could be improved, which would eventually result in adequate communication strategy being produced. The research meets its objectives through an extensive study of relevant literature, including newspaper articles, books and book chapters, online publications, study reports and case studies, governmental reports and regulatory organisations’ reviews, which contain various statistical data, including such as views on nuclear power electricity generation and development of new nuclear plants; information on nuclear accidents occurrence and impact, global energy demand and supply, alternati ve energy sources (fossil fuel and renewables) in regard to climate change and their economic accessibility and competitiveness, etc. The research also includes a case study based on a survey, which was being conducted within a 100-strong sample of respondents in the UK via Survey Monkey on the Internet. Finally, the research has produced a number of key findings and drawn certain conclusions and recommendations. Acknowledgements I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my Dissertation Supervisor, Dr Sara Thorne (nee Gentle), for her valuable advice, constructive criticism and direction, without which, completing this research wouldn’t be possible. Table of Contents Abstract 2 Acknowledgements 3 Table of Contents 4 List of Acronyms 5 List of Figures 7 Introduction 9 Background 9 The problem 10 The research in outline 12 Literature Review 14 Introductory notes 14 Nuclear power plant operation and related issues 15 Energy statistics 17 Public opinion polls & statistics c oncerning nuclear power 18 Nuclear power associated risks, accidents and current level of safety 19 Public perceptions of nuclear power 20 Costs Competitiveness 21 The anti-nuclear point of view 21 Other 21 Research Methodology 24 Research focus 24 Research aims and objectives 24 Research questions 25 Research method 27 Research limitations 28 Energy vs Energy 29 Introductory notes 29 Nuclear power overview 30 Primary energy demand and supply, and electricity generation 31 Economics of different forms of electricity generation 36 Environmental Impact and Health Effects 40 Safety and Security Issues 43 Joe Public and Nuclear Power – a Rather uneasy Relationship 47 Introductory notes 47 The nuclear power debate – standpoints and leading actors 48 The role of the mass media 50 Politics’ Involvement 51 The Experts’ View 52 Case Study: Perception of Nuclear Power – Variations and Motives 53 Let’s Get Real 58 The Current Approach: What is Wrong? 5 8 Could Refined Communication Make a Difference? 60 Nuclear Power is Safe - Does it Work? 64 From Theory to Practice 66 Summary and Conclusions 68 Summary 68 Conclusion and Recommendations 70 Appendices 71 Questionnaire design 71 References 73