Although the electricity generated from nuclear reactions does not directly emit carbon dioxide, the fuel cycle does emit CO2 during the mining and enrichment processes. In a case study in Germany, it was estimated that 34g of CO2 are emitted per kilowatt generated during the extraction and refinement process (Nuclear Age Peace Foundation, 2001). Other studies indicate even higher levels. In comparison to other renewables, nuclear energy releases 4 to 5 times more carbon dioxide during the extraction phase alone (Nuclear Age Peace Foundation, 2001).
Moreover, uranium mining contaminates water and air sources through the disposal of unwanted radioactive sheet rock. As uranium ore is extracted one ton per 40 or more tons of rock, significant amounts of this radioactive rock are left eroding into rivers and soil and inhibiting local populations and ecosystems. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission relies on self-reporting and computer modeling from reactor operators to track radioactive releases and project dispersions, thus convoluting data concerning environmental impact and projecting lower levels of pollution than are probable (Nuclear Age Peace Foundation, 2001).
Uranium pits further destroy the earth and lay waste to large spans of land. Once mining has been undertaken, the land can no longer be used for agriculture or other industries. The radioactive nature renders the land useless for generations to come and further contributes to unsustainable practices.
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Overall, the environmental impacts of uranium extraction carry huge implications and question the sustainability and overall cost of nuclear energy. Given the destruction inherent in open-pit mines, the level of CO2 emissions present in the extraction process, and the possibility of radioactive leakage and waste, nuclear energy should be seriously evaluated as a false solution to climate change.
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