Title: Special Session on Using Advanced Nuclear Technologies to Combat Environmental Degradation and Climate ChangeMain Contact: Sarah Norris, National Nuclear Security Administration, Sarah.Norris@NNSA.DOE.Gov, (202) 586-7613 Proposed Chair: Sarah Norris, National Nuclear Security Administration, Sarah.Norris@NNSA.DOE.Gov, (202) 586-7613 Description: Environmental degradation and climate change are prominent threats facing humanity. In order to combat the growing effects of climate change, and to reclaim natural resources worldwide, a wide range of technical solutions will need to be employed to avoid harmful effects for many populations. Advanced radiation technologies, including non-radioisotopic accelerator-based technologies, can provide important solutions in these efforts, particularly in the areas of agriculture, plastics remediation, wastewater treatment, and flue gas remediation. These technologies, which do not utilize radioisotopic sources, have the added benefit of mitigating the risk of misuse or theft of radioactive materials. While the use of many advanced radiation technologies in these areas are relatively new, international awareness of the need to protect our environments is driving further research, development and procurement, and growth is expected. Panelists from the U.S. National Laboratories and U.S. and international universities will (1) highlight the contributions of advanced radiation technologies in a variety of climate and environmental remediation applications, including plastics remediation, wastewater treatment, agriculture, flue gas remediation, and others, (2) discuss growth opportunities in the use of advanced radiation technologies in these areas moving forward, including opportunities for international engagement, and (3) elaborate on challenges and solutions faced by developers, researchers, and users of advanced radiation technologies for environmental and climate applications.
Year
2022
Abstract