Using Nuclear Energy for Maritime Decarbonization and Related Environmental Challenges: Existing Regulatory Shortcomings and Improvements

Qiuwen Wang, Hu Zhang () and Puxin Zhu
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Qiuwen Wang: School of International Law, East China University of Political Science and Law, Shanghai 201620, China
Hu Zhang: School of International Law, East China University of Political Science and Law, Shanghai 201620, China
Puxin Zhu: School of International Law, East China University of Political Science and Law, Shanghai 201620, China

IJERPH, 2023, vol. 20, issue 4, 1-23

Abstract: In recent years, the use of nuclear energy as propulsion for merchant ships has been proposed as a means of promoting the transition toward maritime decarbonization and environmentally sustainable shipping. However, there are concerns that nuclear-powered merchant ships could pose risks to the marine environment in the event of accidents, such as collisions, machinery failure or damage, fire, or explosions. The current international regulatory framework for nuclear-powered merchant ships is insufficient to address these risks. This research aims to address this gap by conducting a policy analysis of the existing regulations and a critical examination of their effectiveness in addressing the environmental risks of nuclear-powered merchant ships. Through this analysis, the study identifies the shortcomings and insufficiencies in the current framework and explores potential solutions to improve it, with the goal of enhancing the international community’s ability to mitigate the potential impacts of radioactive marine pollution from nuclear-propelled ships in an era of maritime decarbonization.

Keywords: nuclear energy; maritime decarbonization; marine environmental challenges; nuclear-powered merchant ships; international regulatory framework (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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