ARKANSAS, Sept 22 (Future Headlines)- In a compelling address at the Nuclear Energy Policy Summit 2023, US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, John Kerry, emphasized the indispensable role of nuclear energy in expediting the world’s shift away from fossil fuels. The event, held in partnership with the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) during New York Climate Week and the United Nations General Assembly, served as a platform to underscore the urgency of adopting science-based strategies to combat climate change. Kerry commended the recently launched Net Zero Nuclear Initiative, which welcomed GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH) as its inaugural corporate partner, highlighting the global commitment to nuclear energy as a critical component of a sustainable future.

John Kerry opened his address with a sobering assessment of the escalating climate crisis. He noted that the world is currently on a trajectory towards a 2.4 to 2.5-degree Celsius temperature rise, significantly surpassing the 1.1-degree increase experienced today. Kerry emphasized that addressing climate change requires a transition away from the unbridled consumption of fossil fuels, which remain a primary driver of global warming. Acknowledging the enormity of the challenge, he stressed the need for comprehensive solutions that encompass a variety of energy approaches.

One of the most pivotal takeaways from Kerry’s address is the unequivocal endorsement of nuclear energy as an indispensable part of the climate solution. Citing scientific consensus, he underscored that achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, a goal widely accepted as critical for averting catastrophic climate impacts necessitates a diverse energy portfolio. Nuclear energy, with its capacity to deliver reliable, emissions-free power, is a linchpin in this transition.

The magnitude of the climate challenge, Kerry emphasized, demands unwavering commitment. Simply increasing renewable energy sources fivefold will not sufficiently alter the current trajectory towards 2.4-degree warming. To effect real change, it is imperative not to exacerbate the issue by perpetuating the use of unabated fossil fuels. Furthermore, the transition to a sustainable energy future requires the acceleration of zero-emission and ultra-low-emission technologies across energy, transportation, and heavy industry sectors.

John Kerry unequivocally declared the United States’ commitment to accelerating the deployment of nuclear energy. Based on empirical evidence and real-world experience, the US recognizes nuclear power as a vital component in addressing the climate crisis. Kerry asserted that the urgency of the situation demands the inclusion of all available decarbonization technologies. There is no room for unilateral disarmament in the face of this climate emergency.

With the upcoming COP28 climate conference in Dubai, scheduled for November 30 to December 12, 2023, there is an opportunity to galvanize global action on climate change. Kerry expressed his satisfaction with the launch of the Net Zero Nuclear platform, characterizing it as a pioneering initiative. The Net Zero Nuclear Initiative, jointly launched by the World Nuclear Association and ENEC with support from the International Atomic Energy Agency’s Atoms4NetZero and the UK government, seeks to unlock nuclear energy’s potential in facilitating the decarbonization of global energy systems. This initiative is strategically aligned with the goals of COP28, reinforcing the role of nuclear energy in achieving sustainable climate objectives.

Following John Kerry’s address, World Nuclear Association Director General Sama Bilbao y Léon announced a significant development in the nuclear energy landscape. GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy has become the first corporate partner to join the Net Zero Nuclear Initiative. This collaboration exemplifies GEH’s recognition of nuclear energy as a fundamental component of any credible transition to clean energy processes. GEH, a prominent player in various clean energy technologies, has affirmed the pivotal role of nuclear energy in achieving a sustainable, low-carbon future.

The Nuclear Energy Policy Summit 2023 and John Kerry’s keynote address underscored the urgency of addressing climate change through science-based, multi-pronged approaches. Nuclear energy, as championed by Kerry, offers a reliable, emissions-free energy source that is essential for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The commitment of the United States to nuclear energy and the participation of corporate leaders like GEH in the Net Zero Nuclear Initiative signal a collective determination to leverage nuclear power in the global fight against climate change. As we look ahead to COP28, the imperative to embrace nuclear energy as a cornerstone of the climate solution becomes increasingly clear, offering hope for a more sustainable and resilient world.

Reporting by Emad Martin