Utah Fast-Tracks Uranium Mine Permit, Sparking Environmental Concerns
The US government’s decision to fast-track a uranium mine permit in Utah raises serious concerns. This expedited process, bypassing typical environmental and safety reviews, echoes the careless uranium mining practices of the mid-20th century, which resulted in widespread contamination and lasting harm to Navajo communities. This approach represents a recipe for disaster, potentially creating another environmental catastrophe.
The argument that increased uranium supply will significantly impact energy production is weak. Fuel costs comprise a relatively small portion of a nuclear power plant’s operating budget, and even less of the overall cost to build new capacity. Fast-tracking this permit will likely primarily benefit the mine itself, granting it a competitive edge due to significantly reduced regulatory hurdles.… Continue reading
Matt Underwood