How should we compare the dangers of nuclear power and coal?
A memorable accident and a continuing burden of air pollution are difficult to compare by intuition alone. One approach estimates deaths for the same amount of electricity, including defined stages of the supply chain. The answer still depends on the geography, time period, harms counted, and uncertainty in the estimates.
Questions you could explore
- What changes when the comparison includes air pollution as well as accidents?
- Which harms would a deaths-per-electricity measure leave out?
Start reading
- Our World in DataSafest and Cleanest Sources of Energy
Puts air-pollution and accident deaths on a common electricity basis, with notes about geography and uncertain estimates.
Ready to try your ideas aloud?
Your topic carries over. Record up to 2½ minutes, depending on your plan.