Question

What is plutonium reprocessing? Why is it a big environmental issue?

Answer 1

Plutonium is highly radiactive material (most dangerous chemical in the world) produced as a byproduct by the nuclear plants. This plutonium can be reprocessed and used agin in nuclear plants or in other uses like the making of nuclear bombs. Many highly developed countries (like France, Russia and Britain) has its own plutonium reprocessing center and they recycle the plutonium and further use it. Many countries (like Japan, Australia, etc.) have nuclear plants but they do not have their own plutonium reprocessing center and thus the send their atomic waste by ship to the countries having plutonium reprocessing center. To send the atomic waste first they store the atomic waste and when a huge amount is stored then the send for reprocessing. Storage of nuclear waste is a major risk for environmental pollution. Beside storing risk transport of radioactive material across the oceans is also a major risk. The "nuclear ships" often travel near the coast of many countries posing danger to their populations.