Rice, Tony. “NASA, DOE Partner to Develop Nuclear Power Source for the Moon.” WRAL.Com, 26 Jan. 2026, www.wral.com/news/local/nasa-doe-develop-nuclear-power-moon-dec-2023/. 

Abstract

NASA has partnered with the US Department of Energy to build small nuclear reactors to provide power for future Atremis missions to the moon. These nuclear reactors could offer continuous electricity for communication and scientific instruments as well as extract oxygen or fuel from the moon’s soil. Nuclear reactors, unlike solar power, can function during the moon’s 14 day nights and in extreme temperatures. This capability would enable astronauts to remain at the moons for extended periods of time.

Relation to environmental science

Nuclear power represents a clean low emission alternative energy source not dependent  on sunlight or fossil fuels. The detailed study of nuclear systems on the moon also provides insight into how scientifically complex systems can be in harsh environments. The lessons we learned to create reactors on the moon can also apply to nuclear safety on Earth.

1. Arteaga, Ruth. “United States Proposes Incentives for Nuclear Waste.” Inspenet, 25 Jan. 2026, inspenet.com/en/noticias/u-s-plans-to-offer-incentives-to-states-to-store-nuclear-waste/. 

Abstract

The US government is planning to propose payments, both monetary and in electricity, to states that are willing to store nuclear waste. Instead of the old concept of designating one national storage site, such as the Yucca Mountain Project, this plan is baked on a voluntary approach where individual states would be encouraged to bear long term responsibility for nuclear waste. Right now, nuclear waste is sitting in temporary storage near power plants. This new approach could enable states to play host to secure underground storage sites, and potentially pursue waste reprocessing and uranium enrichment onsite.

Relation to environmental science

Highly toxic and dangerous nuclear waste needs to be stored safely to protect both the environment and human health. This article relates to Environmental science because it provides a plan to further mitigate the effects of our increasing demand for electricity. Nuclear energy can reduce carbon emissions, while simultaneously being a long lasting source of energy. 

  Gardner, Timothy. “US Strikes $80 Billion Deal for New Nuclear Power Plants | Reuters.” Reuters, 28 Oct. 2025, www.reuters.com/business/energy/westinghouse-electric-cameco-corp-brookfield-asset-management-80-bln-nuclear-2025-10-28/. 

Abstract

The article talks about how the US government has partnered with Westinghouse Electric to use $80 billion to build new nuclear reactors, making this one of the largest nuclear energy deals in decades. The plan supports Trump’s plans to increase energy production as the demand for electricity increases due to an influx of AI data centers. Under this partnership, the US would help finance and own up to 20% of Westing ton if the projects are successful. Japan may also help fund the reactors.

Relation to environmental science

This article relates to environmental science because Nuclear energy can contribute to the reduction of air pollution by replacing more traditional forms of energy. But, long term waste management also poses a risk to the environment.

1. Golden, Mark. “For U.S. Nuclear Energy Future, Fuel Supply Must Not Be Overlooked.”, Stanford Energy, 9 Jan. 2026, energy.stanford.edu/news/us-nuclear-energy-future-fuel-supply-must-not-be-overlooked. 

Abstract

This article discusses the expected arrival of nuclear power in the United States as it faces a problem, an insufficient uranium fuel supply chain. As the demand for electricity rises, mainly for AI data centers, shortages in uranium mining threaten the long-term use of nuclear energy sources, especially in the US. Research from a Stanford  University-led nuclear fuel cycle team highlights the weaknesses across the stages of the nuclear cycle. While the next generation of reactors promises more efficient fuel use, they also raise potential risks, further straining fuel markets.

Relation to environmental science

The article relates to environmental sciences because nuclear energy has very low carbon emissions, which helps to reduce GHG emissions. However, uranium mining can impact the environment if not managed properly. 

1. ExchangeMonitor. “New York Pushes for 5,000 Megawatts of New Nuclear Energy.” ExchangeMonitor, 23 Jan. 2026, www.exchangemonitor.com/new-york-pushes-for-5000-megawatts-of-new-nuclear-energy/. 

Abstract:

The article discusses governor Kathy Hochul’s 2026 State of  the state address where she plans to expand New York’s approach to nuclear power and is considering up to 5000 megawatts of new nuclear energy. This plan goes beyond plans created earlier and is intended to improve the reliability of New York’s grid, supporting the state’s clean energy goals. The proposal, referred to as the Nuclear Reliability Backbone, would bring together new nuclear plants, existing reactors and a previously planned 1000 megawatt New York Authority project to create a unified energy system. New York also plans to introduce the NextGen Nuclear New York in the near future, which is a development program designed to educate future nuclear workers.

Relation to environmental science 

The plan relates to environmental sciences because it addresses plans being put in place to mitigate climate change and develop more sources of sustainable energy. Since nuclear power creates little to no carbon emissions, it is a perfect alternative to traditional fossil fuel plants. The initiative proposed by Hochul also emphasizes other environmental concerns like nuclear waste management and ecosystem protection.

Astract

Ukraine has conducted drone strikes in the proximity of the Kursk nuclear plant, which is located in western Russia. While drone attacks were made against nuclear facilities, it was reported that a fire had started in an auxiliary transformer, without casualties or an increase in radiation. The incident brings attention to much broader questions about safety around nuclear facilities in conflict areas, since Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia atomic plant, located in southern Ukraine, has also faced repeated attacks since the onset of the russian invasion in 2022. The IAEA, which is monitoring the situation, reported radiation levels remained normal.

Relation to environmental sciences 

This article is related to environmental sciences because it highlights the risk nuclear facilities face in the middle of human conflicts, amplified by the prospect of ecological contamination, threats to public health, and ecosystem disturbance.

Newsweek(24 August 2025 4:00 am EDT) Ellie Cook Ukraine Strikes Russian Nuclear Power Plant, Moscow says Retrieved 24 August 2025 https://www.newsweek.com/ukraine-strikes-russian-nuclear-power-plant-says-moscow-2118411

Astract

Plans for a nuclear microreactor in Bar Nunn, Wyoming, proposed by Radiant, have sparked local discussions. Radiant aims to produce portable microreactors to replace diesel generators for a significant energy supply. Officials emphasize the importance of public education to ease fears related to radiation and safety. Meanwhile, some residents worry about undisclosed plans that could contaminate uranium. Experts note that advanced small reactors are built under strict safety regulations, minimizing the risk of accidents. The facility has not yet begun operation but is in the planning stage, seeking the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s approval and undergoing testing at the Idaho National Laboratory.

Relation to environmental sciences 

This article relates to environmental sciences because microreactors are a low-carbon solution to fossil fuels, resulting in the potential reduction of greenhouse gas emissions while still having reliable energy sources.

Newsweek(24 August 2025 4:00 am EDT) Jasmine Laws Nuclear Reactor Plans for Wyoming Town Spark Alarm Retrieved 24 August 2025 https://www.newsweek.com/nuclear-reactor-plans-wyoming-town-alarm-2114839

Abstract

Even though a majority of voters supported a referendum in Taiwan to reopen the Maanshan nuclear plant, the referendum did not achieve the legal limit required for its approval. The Mannshan nuclear power plant has not operated since it was opened in May, as Taiwan pursues renewable energy, partially due to safety reasons since it is in an earthquake-prone area, as well as logistical disagreements regarding nuclear waste. Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te indicated that if safety technology improves and nuclear waste containment gets better, the government can maybe consider the inclusion of nuclear power as an energy source. This referendum reflects ongoing debates regarding Taiwan’s energy policy with respect to securing reliability when transitioning from fossil fuel energy demands. 

Relation to environmental sciences

This article relates to environmental sciences because nuclear energy provides a low-carbon energy source that could reduce the impact of climate change caused by greenhouse gases and also reduce the reliance on fossil fuels. But concerns associated with nuclear energy production complicate whether or not nuclear energy is the right course of action, because clean energy and reduced reliance on fossil fuels have potential positive outcomes for the environment and human health.

The Guardian (24 August 2025 4:00 am EDT) The Guardian Taiwan referendum on reopening last nuclear plant fails Retrieved 24 August 2025 https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/aug/24/taiwan-referendum-on-reopening-last-nuclear-plant-fails

Abstract: 

In this article, Google and Kairos Power plan to collaborate and build the Hermes 2 nuclear reactor in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, by 2030. Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) plans to buy 50 megawatts of power to help Google run its regional data center. Unlike other large nuclear reactors, Hermes 2 uses liquid salt coolant, which makes it safer and cheaper to build, with the added bonus of making it smaller. Kairos and Google plan to fund the construction, while the TVA plans to cover the cost of running the reactor. This project is revolutionary because it is the first deal in the United States that proves that nuclear reactors can be smaller and more modular while also being quick to build and affordable.

Relation to Environmental Science:

This article relates to environmental science because it addresses the challenge of creating an energy source that is reliable and does not release greenhouse gases. Nuclear power, unlike fossil fuels, does not emit greenhouse gases that cloud the atmosphere, helping to mitigate climate change. Hermes 2 also represents a shift to smaller and more efficient nuclear reactor designs, not only in the US, but in the world. Supporting Google’s switch to nuclear power to fuel its data centers could initiate the switch from more traditional power sources to nuclear.

CNBC(18 August 2025) Spencer Kimball Google, Kairos Power plan advanced nuclear plant for Tennessee Valley Authority grid by 2030. Retrieved 19 August 2025

https://www.cnbc.com/2025/08/18/google-kairos-nuclear-smr-tennessee-valley-authority-tva-data-center-ai.html

Abstract:

The U.S Department of Energy(DOE) has started a Consortium Defense Production Act(DPA) to support domestic nuclear fuel supply chains and build reliable nuclear power generation. Under this initiative, the DOE will create voluntary agreements with U.S. companies to build a range of industries involved in the nuclear cycle, including milling, mining, and enrichment. The DOE has also released an interim final rule, which includes the procedures that will be followed when executing these voluntary agreements. The first DPA consortium meeting is scheduled to take place on the 14th of October 2025, as the Department seeks to collaborate with industrious to secure a nuclear energy future that is more independent and resilient.

Relation to Environmental Sciences

This article relates to environmental sciences because supporting domestic supply chains for nuclear fuel is an important way to decrease the need for harmful energy sources by providing a consistent and reliable energy source. By promoting a lower reliance on fossil fuels, nuclear power can help generate power in a reliable way, helping to lower greenhouse gas emissions and improve the sustainability of the U.S. energy framework.

Newsweek(22 August 2025) Energy Department to Establish New Consortium for Nuclear Fuel Supply Chain

 Retrieved 24 August 2025

https://www.energy.gov/ne/articles/energy-department-establish-new-consortium-nuclear-fuel-supply-chain