S.Y. Chen

S.Y. Chen is leader of the risk assessment and safety evaluation group at the Argonne National Laboratory, a U.S. Department of Energy research institute. In the following viewpoint, Chen argues that recycling slightly radioactive metal from decommissioned nuclear power plants is safer and less costly than disposing of it. Chen asserts that replacing radioactive metal that has been disposed of necessitates the extraction and processing of virgin metals to replace it. This process creates significant environmental and health hazards. In contrast, according to Chen, recycling radioactive metal saves mineral and energy resources, creates less water and air pollution, and produces fewer industrial accidents. As you read, consider the following questions:

1. According to Chen, what does the term “risk” refer to as used by his risk assessment team?
2. What pathways would...