John Kerry, the US special climate envoy, unveiled an international engagement plan for nuclear fusion at the COP28 U.N. Climate Summit in Dubai. The initiative involves 35 nations and focuses on research and development, addressing supply chain issues, and establishing regulations for nuclear fusion technology.
Kerry emphasized the potential of fusion technology to revolutionize the world, presenting it as a crucial element of the future global energy landscape. Nuclear fusion, which mirrors the process powering the sun and stars, involves replicating the conditions on Earth using heat and pressure, often with lasers or magnets. This process combines two light atoms into a denser one, releasing significant energy.
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While still in the developmental stage, nuclear fusion holds promise due to its ability to generate vast amounts of power without leaving long-lasting radioactive waste. This sets it apart from existing nuclear fission plants, providing a cleaner and more sustainable energy solution.
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The United States and Britain had previously signed a cooperation agreement on fusion technology on November 8. The collaborative efforts outlined in the plan signify a global commitment to advancing fusion research and addressing key challenges in realizing its potential as a clean and efficient energy source.
This initiative reflects a concerted effort to leverage nuclear fusion for a sustainable energy future, with implications for global climate action.