VLADIMIR GRACHEV AND OLGA PLIAMINA
Abstract
The impact of energy technologies on population health, in particular, on diseases associated with environmental pollution and degradation, and with climate instability has been demonstrated. The advantages of using gas instead of coal, and the harmful impact of carbon emissions from the coalfired power plants on human health have been proved. Coal-fired power industry is the main health hazard for population. Nuclear power provides the greatest environmental efficiency and the lowest impact on population health. The authors have examined the nuclear power impact on health. It is proved that the fears associated with risks are exaggerated. A risk-oriented approach convincingly demonstrates the advantages of nuclear energy and its safety for public health. Based on long-term observations and case-study of a specific region the Voronezh Region of Russia, it is shown that the nuclear power plant location did not adversely affect the health of the population.