Environmental assessment of nuclear power generation in Korea

Abstract

Nuclear energy is the major source of the electricity generation due to the lack of domestic energy in Korea. In recent years, environmental preservation concern has been increased for more efficient management of nuclear energy. Therefore it is necessary to apply Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology including environmental management system, waste reduction schemes and environmental analysis methods. In this study, LCA methodology is introduced to the nuclear power generation system and environmental burden caused by this system is assessed. This study suggests new methodology for environmental assessment and establishes the extensive infra-database related with nuclear power generation system. Also, it is possible to improve the scientific basis of LCA with the emphasis on the nuclear power generation system. Therefore, this study consists of general framework of LCA such as goal and scope, inventory analysis, impact assessment, and valuation of the nuclear power generation system. The major objectives are to identify the environmental impact and the environmentally most dominant stage in life cycle of nuclear power generation system and to suggest the new methodology to solve the problem when LCA is applied to facility releasing the radioactive wastes. Thus this study is useful to improve the environmental impact assessment of nuclear power generation system and to promote the methodology of LCA.