The urgent need to address the global climate crisis has prompted a search for practical solutions to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and facilitate the transition to sustainable energy sources. Nuclear technology has emerged as a viable option in this context, offering clean, reliable, and scalable energy production. This article explores the role of nuclear technology in mitigating the climate crisis and suggests how Pakistan can leverage its nuclear capabilities to address climate issues.
Developed states have made notable progress utilizing nuclear technology to combat climate change. One key strategy employed by these countries is the generation of carbon-free energy. Nuclear power plants provide a stable and emission-free source of electricity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Countries like France, the United States, and Japan have successfully integrated nuclear power into their energy mix, significantly reducing their carbon footprints. As Pakistan has been ranked 8th most vulnerable country to climate change by Global Climate Risk Index 2021, it is necessary to utilize its peaceful nuclear technology to mitigate climate challenges and limit the impact of the risks associated with climate change like floods and the resultant loss of crops.
Investments in research and development worldwide have led to advancements in nuclear technology, resulting in innovations like small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced reactor designs. These innovations offer improved safety features, greater efficiency, and increased flexibility in deployment, making nuclear energy more accessible and attractive. In addition to electricity generation, nuclear technology is being explored for other peaceful purposes. Developed countries are diversifying their energy portfolio by employing nuclear power for district heating, desalination, and industrial processes. This diversification extends the benefits of nuclear energy beyond power generation, contributing to overall decarbonization efforts. So, Pakistan must collaborate with developed states on climate issues.
Pakistan has made significant strides in using nuclear energy to mitigate the climate crisis and address its energy needs. One notable achievement is the operationalization of nuclear power plants. The Chashma Nuclear Power Plants (C-1 and C-2), commissioned in 2000 and 2011, contribute 325 MW each to Pakistan’s electricity generation. C3 and C4 have a capacity of 340 MW each and are operational from 2016 and 2017, respectively. Another power plant was inaugurated in February this year, the third unit of the Karachi Nuclear Power Plant (K-3). This new unit is expected to generate 1,100 MW of electricity. By incorporating nuclear power into its energy mix, Pakistan has effectively reduced its reliance on fossil fuels, resulting in a corresponding decrease in greenhouse gas emissions.
Another accomplishment is the diversification of Pakistan’s energy sources. Nuclear power complements other forms of energy generation, such as hydroelectric power and renewable sources like wind and solar, creating a more balanced and resilient energy mix. This diversification enhances energy security and reduces vulnerability to fluctuations in fuel prices and availability. Pakistan has also invested in research and development related to nuclear technology through Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC). PINSTECH, as a premier R&D institute of PAEC, has made significant contributions in various fields, expanding the frontiers of knowledge. It has undertaken important technical assignments of national interest and engages a highly qualified workforce in its R&D activities. This commitment has led to advancements in nuclear energy, including safety measures, waste management, and reactor design. Continued R&D efforts ensure that Pakistan remains at the forefront of nuclear technology, allowing for further improvements in efficiency and safety.
Apart from electricity generation, Pakistan has utilized nuclear techniques in agriculture, such as mutation breeding and pest control, contributing to increased crop productivity and climate-resilient crops that can withstand changing climatic conditions, thereby reducing the impact of climate change. Although Pakistan’s carbon footprint is less than 1%, the impacts of climate change are severe on Pakistan. Last year in 2022, Pakistan was inflicted with severe floods that resulted in losses amounting to USD 40 billion to Pakistan’s economy. Further, the country suffered from food shortages due to the destruction of crops. Using nuclear science, not only the impact of climate change can be reduced, but also the effect of changing weather patterns on crops can be tackled.
While Pakistan has made notable progress, there is still potential for further advancements in leveraging nuclear energy for climate crisis mitigation. DG IAEA Mr Rafael M Grossi speaking at a seminar organized by CISS, Islamabad, highlighted that ‘Pakistan possesses the technical and engineering capacity to support the development of new nuclear power plants, including SMRs. This capability indicates a promising outlook for nuclear energy in the country to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).’
Hence Pakistan, with its existing nuclear capabilities, has the potential to harness this technology to mitigate climate issues effectively. Expanding the country’s nuclear power capacity can significantly reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. By investing in new reactors, including advanced designs, Pakistan can meet its growing energy demands while reducing carbon emissions. Pakistan can integrate nuclear power with renewable energy sources to facilitate a smoother transition to a low-carbon future.
The country possesses ample renewable energy potential, particularly in solar and wind. Pakistan can establish a stable and sustainable electricity grid by combining nuclear power with renewables. Furthermore, nuclear power plants can support carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies, which capture and store CO2 emissions from industrial processes and fossil fuel power plants. Pakistan can explore collaborations and research initiatives to implement CCS alongside its nuclear power plants, contributing to emissions reduction efforts.
Pakistan’s water scarcity issues, particularly in coastal regions, can also be addressed through nuclear desalination. By utilizing excess nuclear energy, desalination plants can provide clean water, reducing reliance on fossil-fuelled desalination methods and alleviating the water crisis. In addition, Pakistan can foster regional cooperation by sharing its nuclear expertise and knowledge with countries facing similar climate challenges. This collaboration can promote the adoption of nuclear technology for climate mitigation in the South Asian region.
Nuclear technology offers Pakistan a promising pathway to mitigate the climate crisis. By expanding its nuclear power capacity, integrating renewables, exploring carbon capture and storage, investing in nuclear desalination, and fostering regional cooperation, Pakistan can make substantial contributions to climate change mitigation. Embracing a sustainable energy future through the responsible use of nuclear technology is crucial in addressing the climate crisis while ensuring a cleaner, more resilient future for Pakistan and the world.
About the Author
Tayyaba Khurshid is a Research Officer at the CISS AJK.
