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One Planet: The metal that may save the world

Factual: Science & Nature

08/04/2011

The metal that may save the world

BBC World Service - One Planet, The metal that may save the world

In search of a mineral that could solve the world's energy puzzle

There's some good news from Japan finally - they've plugged the crack at the Fukushima nuclear plant that was leaking highly radioactive water into the Pacific Ocean. The emergency at Fukushima has once again raised the safety of the industry to the front of many minds. We debated it recently on One Planet - many listeners got in touch, and several of you asked about a radioactive element called Thorium.

This abundant mineral was discovered in 1828 - was named after the Norse god of thunder - Thor - and has an atomic number of 90. But that's not why we're interested. What makes this mineral interesting is that it's an element some believe can help power the nuclear reactors of the future. 

On this week's One Planet, we chat to Professor Carol Rubbia, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist who has long believed Thorium - instead of Uranium and Plutonium -offers the promise of safe, abundant atomic energy. Hear him explain why.

Also in the show, we go inside Bolivia's rich mountain - an iconic peak that is collapsing in on itself following centuries of mining. Plus we look down on the world, this time from the Sydney Tower. As ever, tune in, listen and let us know what you think - email the team at oneplanet@bbc.com, or join us on Facebook, the link's below.

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