A new venture aims to harness novel nuclear power for atmospheric carbon removal, sparking debate over its feasibility and safety.
Corbin Hiar reports for E&E News.
In short:
- The project, led by a climate technology startup, plans to use small modular reactors, a new nuclear technology, for direct air capture in Wyoming.
- Experts express concerns about the practicality and risks of combining unproven nuclear power with emerging carbon capture technology.
- The initiative reflects a broader push by the Biden administration to innovate in climate change mitigation, despite uncertainties in technology and implementation.
Key quote:
“You’re starting off with a complex new technology, and now you’re trying to wed another complex technology, including one that’s in transition.”
— Wil Burns, Co-Director, American University's Institute for Carbon Removal Law and Policy.
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