Energy and environment

Every energy source has its effect on the environment. The burning of fossil fuels raises the carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere and contributes to the problem of acid rain. Hydroelectric power generation affects vast areas of land and, in Canada, often make it difficult for aboriginal peoples to follow a traditional lifestyle. Nuclear energy has many advantages: the fuel supply is almost unlimited supply; nuclear power plants produce no carbon dioxide or acid rain; generating stations can be built close to the market. However, the accidents at Three Mile Island and Chernobyl have seriously undermined the credibility of the world nuclear industry, and the elimination of nuclear waste is seen as a serious problem