Final answer:
Challenges that arise when nuclear material is removed from a power plant include environmental concerns, decommissioning requirements, and proliferation and safety risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
When nuclear material is removed from a power plant, several challenges arise.
- Environmental challenges: The creation of radioactive wastes, such as uranium mill tailings and spent reactor fuel, pose a threat to human health for thousands of years. Proper disposal and containment measures are required to prevent radioactive contamination.
- Decommissioning challenges: When a nuclear reactor stops operating, it must be decommissioned, which involves safely removing the reactor and contaminated equipment. Strict rules from regulatory bodies govern the decommissioning process to ensure safety.
- Proliferation and safety challenges: The misuse of radioactive waste for harmful purposes, as well as risks associated with uncontrolled nuclear reactions, pose significant challenges in terms of security and safety.