Comparative assessment of the environmental impact of nuclear power plant technology using life cycle assessment approach: A review

Abstract

Nuclear power plants (NPP) are being considered as an alternative energy that could reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, there are various challenges that need to be addressed regarding the variation of current nuclear technology such as environmental impact issues. To ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of nuclear power plants technology, a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach can be used to study the environmental impacts of the nuclear power plant. LCA is a method for evaluating the environmental impact of a product or process from start to finish. By conducting a preliminary LCA study of each Nuclear Power Plant technologies, the environmental impacts of the stages of construction, operation, and management of radioactive waste can be understood. This study can also help compare the environmental impacts of nuclear power plants with other energy technologies. This preliminary study will review the environmental impact from pressurized water reactor, boiling water reactor, molten salt reactor, and compare with conventional coal power plant to provide compact summary of the technology. The results of the LCA study can help identify areas that require more attention in the development of nuclear power plants in Indonesia.