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

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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)

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Qiuwen Wang & Hu Zhang & Puxin Zhu, 2023. "Using Nuclear Energy for Maritime Decarbonization and Related Environmental Challenges: Existing Regulatory Shortcomings and Improvements," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(4), pages 1-23, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:20:y:2023:i:4:p:2993-:d:1062137
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Dong-Ping Song, 2024. "A Literature Review of Seaport Decarbonisation: Solution Measures and Roadmap to Net Zero," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(4), pages 1-32, February.

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