RISK PERCEPTION AS IT APPLIES TO NUCLEAR POWER AND NUCLEAR WASTE DISPOSAL

Disparate perceptions of risk have emerged as one of the critical issues confronting the future of commercial nuclear power. This paper explores the origins and possible ramifications of the public's perception of risks associated with commercial nuclear power and related high-level nuclear waste disposal programs. Risk has become an increasingly important factor in debates focusing on technology innovation. In our society, the question \"How safe is safe enough\" has emerged as a major policy issue. This paper summarizes the results of numerous psychometric studies and public opinion polls that analyze the relationship of risk to nuclear power and waste management. It further describes a three -pronged approach that is designed, in part, to address pertinent risk perception factors. The three elements of this approach include: a) risk communication; b) citizen involvement; and c) risk assessment and regulation.