Introduction: Nuclear Hope (04:59)

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A warning to future generations about radioactive waste is relayed over clips of nature, underground facilities and science fiction. The narrator explains that no harm was intended when humanity put off sacrificing consumerism for sustainable future.

Nuclear Fears (06:42)

During the Cold War, information regarding nuclear energy was incomplete; Chernobyl and Three Mile Island increased public apprehension. Scientists, professors, and activists discuss hopes for atomic energy, and their various perspectives on risks and advantages connected to it. A farmer makes a golden goose analogy; nuclear waste is associated with pestilence and genetic mutation.

Informed Risks (03:28)

Radioactive material is produced by x-rays, and decays at the end of its half-life. Scientists discuss the stigmas of nuclear energy, and compare its risks to those of other power sources.

Radioactive Waste (08:21)

A scientist argues that geological understanding and engineering methods allow for full proof atomic waste containment; others express concerns about disposal and extensive decay times. Nuclear fuel bundles are used in reactors, which power electricity producing steam turbines; hazardous, expended bundles must be replaced and stored safely for 100,000 years. A geophysicist explains that other garbage is as toxic, and should also be properly processed; others discuss the pros and cons of underground storage.

Bruce Canyon Debate (08:58)

Bruce County is a farm community on Lake Huron; it is home to the world's largest nuclear power facility, and considering radioactive waste storage. Residents and farmers discuss their connection to the land, environmental concerns and community economics; nuclear disposal is a divisive topic among citizens.

Northern Ontario (08:21)

Manitouwadge, Elliot Lake, and Hornepayne mines once produced most of the world's uranium; the mines are now gone, impacting community economics; the area is considering nuclear waste disposal. Residents express concerns about environment and future generations; they discuss job creation and economic sustainability. Safe transport of radioactive waste to the repository is debated by scientists, activists and citizens.

Nuclear Legacy (06:21)

Radioactive waste disposal creates jobs, but communities are conflicted by making a decision potentially impacting thousands of generations. Nuclear power is controversial; residents and scientists discuss politics, public perception, agriculture, and consequences of containment failure. Current electro-power infrastructures emit carbon dioxide, and need replaced; atomic energy would solve emissions problems, but could create other issues.

Long Term Safety (05:46)

The question is posed: how do we insure the safety of generations 100,000 years in the future? Scientists and residents discuss the geological and social changes that could occur during the half-life of nuclear waste. Successive humans must be able to find, read and understand warnings regarding dumpsites; Ontario residents express responsibility for those people.

Credits: Nuclear Hope (02:12)

Credits: Nuclear Hope