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Nuclear fusion: Difference between revisions
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For some of them, the future evolution can be predicted with some confidence, | For some of them, the future evolution can be predicted with some confidence, | ||
but for others the predictions are hotly debated. | but for others the predictions are hotly debated. | ||
In any case, the choice for any specific energy generation options should not be considered in isolation from other global issues, such as the exhaustion of natural resources, poverty, and overpopulation, but rather as an element in the general framework of sustainable development, since all these issues must be addressed to guarantee the establishment of a stable and livable society. | |||
In particular, it is important to be aware that any technological solution to the energy problem (as well as to, e.g., agricultural production levels) will only mean temporary relief if population growth is not controlled. | |||
The latter issue should therefore receive top priority in any effort to attain sustainable development. | |||
Whatever the case may be, energy generation in the near future will most likely be based on a mix of many options, that will vary in accord with local economic, environmental, and social conditions. | |||
In the case of fusion, there is an additional complication due to the fact that its implementation is not immediate, and that its eventual implementation is subject to the solution of a number of technical problems. The current consensus it that while the technical challenges are formidable, they can be overcome. Thus, the main discussion regarding fusion as an energy option is not about its technical feasibility, but about the timescales for implementation. | In the case of fusion, there is an additional complication due to the fact that its implementation is not immediate, and that its eventual implementation is subject to the solution of a number of technical problems. The current consensus it that while the technical challenges are formidable, they can be overcome. Thus, the main discussion regarding fusion as an energy option is not about its technical feasibility, but about the timescales for implementation. | ||