Under the 1980 Low-Level Radioactive Waste Policy Act, each state must take responsibility for its non-defense related, low-level nuclear waste. If nuclear waste was NOT regulated and disposed of properly, which of these could be a possible effect?
A) The risk of cancer in humans would decrease.
B) We would be able to grow more crops, and thus, end world hunger.
C) Waste disposal regulations would not affect anything environmentally.
D) Higher incidence of cancers in humans and the contamination of crops and livestock.
What do you think?
D) Higher incidence of cancers in humans and the contamination of crops and livestock.
The answer is D) Higher incidence of cancers in humans and the contamination of crops and livestock.
If nuclear waste is not regulated and disposed of properly, it can have several negative effects on both human health and the environment. Here's an explanation of the possible effects:
1. Higher incidence of cancers in humans: Improper disposal of nuclear waste can lead to the release of radioactive materials into the environment. These materials can contaminate the air, water, and soil, exposing humans to radiation. Prolonged exposure to radiation increases the risk of developing cancer and other radiation-related diseases in humans.
2. Contamination of crops and livestock: Radioactive materials released from improperly disposed nuclear waste can contaminate agricultural lands. If crops are grown in contaminated soil or livestock graze on contaminated grass, they can accumulate radioactive substances in their tissues. This can lead to the consumption of contaminated food products, posing a health risk to humans.
It's essential to regulate and dispose of nuclear waste properly to minimize these potential risks. The 1980 Low-Level Radioactive Waste Policy Act was enacted to ensure that each state takes responsibility for managing its non-defense related, low-level nuclear waste to protect both human health and the environment.