|
|
|
|
|
Molly Farneth, Scoville Peace Fellow, Physicians for Social Responsibility, 1875 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20009, 202-667-4260 x229, mfarneth@psr.org
The nuclear and fossil fuel-based energy policy of the United States threatens public health and global security. Global and regional competition for access to fossil fuels has escalated violence and war in oil-producing regions. A recent study from the World Bank, for instance, demonstrates the negative correlation between the development of oil production and exportation capabilities and the maintenance of peace and democracy. Meanwhile, U.S. military and foreign policy is influenced by the need for secure access to oil resources. Around the world, energy infrastructure has been a target for sabotage and attack, and U.S. energy policy has created significant infrastructure vulnerabilities domestically. Nuclear and fossil fuel-based energy systems are highly vulnerable to terrorist attack, largely due to the centralized nature of these infrastructures. The explosion of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) in one LNG tanker, for example, could kill thousands of people. An attack on a nuclear power plant could have a similarly devastating effect, especially given the close proximity of several plants to major population centers. This presentation will detail these security risks and the public health risks associated with them. Also covered will be how sustainable energy alternatives can mitigate these threats.
Learning Objectives: By the end of this session, attendees will be able to
Keywords: War, Environmental Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.