Question

Recently, the United States government decided to construct a huge crypt in the middle of Yucca Mountain in Nevada to bury high-level wastes, but complaints by Nevada residents and other citizens have delayed putting that plan into operation. Describe at least three concerns that the residents of this area might have regarding construction of the crypt at this site.

Answer 1

Storing high-level waste is always a concern when it is done near a populated community. Therefore, this plan is likely to be met with reluctance on the part of the local population. There are several complaints that locals might have about this issue:

1. The crypt might take up space that is desirable for the community. This could prevent the construction of housing nearby, making it difficult for the community to grow.

2. The crypt might leak, and its contents could pollute the natural environment of the area.

3. The crypt might be aesthetically unpleasant, which could also affect tourism or urban growth.

Answer 2

The three concerns that the residents of this area might be:

1) The cost of not moving forward is extremely high, so they opposed the plan, as they think it would affect US economy

2) Nuclear waste disposal capability is an environmental imperative, so their environment would be polluted by very radioactive materials.

3) Demand for new nuclear plants also demands disposal capability which supports national security but again, their site will be no longer for them. But unfortunately, Extensive studies consistently show Yucca Mountain to be a sound site for nuclear waste disposal so the plan can't be abolished.

Hope this helps!