New Zealand has rejected any idea of going nuclear as its Australian neighbours join the US in the Bush administration's Global Nuclear Energy Program (GNEP).
As a result of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Sydney, Australia this week, talk on climate change has been rife, and debate on nuclear technologies a key factor.
Australian Prime Minister John Howard told the conference that nuclear power seems like a valid way for Australia to cut greenhouse emissions, rather than abide by the stringent conditions of Kyoto.
Australia's ABC quotes Howard as saying : "Australia intends to participate in the global energy partnership and there will be great benefits in terms of access to nuclear technology and non-proliferation."
The GNEP gives member countries access to research the US' 'next four' nuclear power plants.
President Bush urged other members of the forum to show support for nuclear energy.
"If you believe that greenhouse gases are a priority, like a lot of us, if you take the issue seriously like I do and John [Howard] does, then you should be supportive of nuclear power."
Meanwhile, NZ's Government took the opportunity to take a strong stance against nuclear power and highlighted its commitment to Kyoto and the development of sustainable energies.
Trade Minister Phil Goff told Radio New Zealand that while the nation does not condemn the use of nuclear technologies, it prefers to look to alternative green measures.
"I think that the goal of countries developing nuclear power is to lower global emissions through the use of thermal energy," Goff says.
"Yes, it will achieve those objectives but it will create other concerns such as those that we have mentioned, in terms of risk factors including attacks on nuclear power stations, disposal of waste and so on."
Reported by Penny Jones
