Just Transition Reading Club #1: Bananas over Nuclear
After being on the wane following the disastrous Fukushima meltdown in 2011, nuclear energy has seen a resurgence in Asia – aided by state-backed information campaigns (often with the use of bananas).
Across the region, governments are reintroducing nuclear energy in their decarbonisation plans. Indonesia aims to add up to 10 GW of nuclear capacity by 2040. Vietnam has revived its first nuclear project after an eight-year pause, Thailand is targeting 600 MW of nuclear energy by 2037. The Philippines is eyeing nuclear additions by 2032. Singapore is studying whether nuclear could supply up to 10 per cent of its energy needs by 2050.
Proponents argue that new technologies have made nuclear energy safer, cheaper and even cleaner to deploy. Small modular reactors (SMRs) in particular, have been at the heart of these discussions. Yet only one SMR project, the Linglong One in China, is currently in commercial operation globally.
Amid a flurry of nuclear-related deals being signed between Southeast Asia and global powers, are the risks around new nuclear technology being downplayed?
Who stands to benefit – and conversely, who bears the costs – from this nuclear renaissance?
What are the trade-offs that the public is being asked to accept in the name of decarbonisation?
In our very first Just Transition Reading Club session, we will be joined by nuclear physicist and professor M.V. Ramana, author of Nuclear is Not the Solution, to unpack the renewed push for nuclear power in the region and whether it has a place in a just and sustainable future.
We’ll read two selected chapters from Ramana’s book alongside a 2024 Jacobin critique of his work to ensure a rigorous discussion. The session is open to participants of all knowledge levels. Readings will be sent to successful registrants via email.
Register to secure a spot (and your slice of freshly-baked banana bread)!
Accessibility note:
The venue is unfortunately only accessible via stairs and does not currently have lift access. We sincerely apologise for this limitation.
About the Just Transition Reading Club
Just Transition Reading Club invites the public to engage with seminal texts and research on Asia’s energy transition through a justice-based lens to facilitate deeper discussions and counter-visions of a more sustainable and just future beyond dominant narratives.