Experts contend that Thailand should enhance public awareness of nuclear power to build trust. Pennsylvania Kanchana emphasized the benefits of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in reducing emissions and enhancing safety. Challenges include high construction costs and public fears due to historical disasters. A skilled workforce and educational emphasis on nuclear technology are vital for stability and competitiveness, as endorsed by various experts during a recent roundtable discussion.
Experts at a recent roundtable session organized by Krungthep Turakij emphasized the importance of increasing public awareness of nuclear power in Thailand to foster trust. Pennapa Kanchana from the Office of Atoms for Peace highlighted that Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing energy security and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Despite generating only one-third of the electricity of larger plants, SMRs are noted for being safer and easier to construct. Furthermore, the radioactive waste generated can be utilized for medical purposes, aligning Thailand’s regulations with international standards established in 2016.
However, Pennapa acknowledged high construction costs and social acceptance as significant challenges due to lingering fears from past nuclear incidents in Japan and Ukraine. She stated, “Thailand’s laws are ready except for civil responsibilities,” and advocated for international cooperation to alleviate uncertainties and strengthen public trust in nuclear power.
Somboon Rassame, head of Chulalongkorn University’s nuclear engineering department, underscored the urgent need for a skilled workforce within Thailand’s nuclear sector to combat knowledge deficiencies. He predicted that rapid technological advancements in the coming years would heighten global competition, saying, “Thailand needs to develop courses, training workshops, and international knowledge exchange to remain competitive.” He called for government involvement in enhancing educational frameworks that support nuclear technology development while ensuring thorough safety assessments to address public concerns.
Suchin Udomsomporn, vice president of the Nuclear Society of Thailand, argued for increasing knowledge and building public confidence through improved collaboration among agencies. She noted that despite the benefits of nuclear power in healthcare, public fear remains prevalent. Suchin stated, “Relevant agencies should prioritize providing accurate, transparent, and trustworthy information for future generations,” advocating for the inclusion of nuclear power in educational curricula and the development of a skilled workforce.
She also emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration in enhancing trust and knowledge regarding nuclear energy among the citizens.
In conclusion, to enhance public trust in nuclear power, Thailand must focus on awareness campaigns and education about the benefits of nuclear energy. Moreover, addressing the fear stemming from past disasters, investing in workforce development, and fostering collaboration among agencies are essential steps. By doing so, Thailand can strengthen its energy security through sustainable nuclear technology while ensuring the public’s confidence is secured.
Original Source: www.nationthailand.com
