Atoms and ashes: from Bikini Atoll to Fukushima

Historical analysis reveals that major nuclear accidents, including the Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site incident, have consistently hindered civilian nuclear initiatives, complicating the debate on nuclear energy's role in mitigating climate change. Serhii Plokhy's book examines six nuclear disasters—Bikini Atoll (1950s), Kyshtym (1957), Windscale (1957), Three Mile Island (1979), Chernobyl (1986), and Fukushima (2011)—through comprehensive research and firsthand accounts, balancing technical details with human narratives. The study underscores the paradox of nuclear energy: while its potential to address climate change is significant, repeated accidents have eroded public trust and slowed progress. Plokhy argues that these disasters, far from being secrets, have shaped global perceptions, making it challenging to envision a world without their impact.

Bedenko, V. (2024). Atoms and ashes: from Bikini Atoll to Fukushima. International Affairs, 100(1), 410–411. https://doi.org/10.1093/ia/iiad311