When discussing nuclear energy, the first question asked is whether this form of energy production causes pollution. There is no clear answer. While nuclear energy does not contribute any air pollution because it is a form of zero-emission clean energy. However nuclear power has 3 waste categories that impact the environment. The 3 categories refer to the mining / refining of uranium, potential radioactive emissions into the air due to accidents and spent nuclear fuel from reactors.
One little known fact which has huge potential in reducing the environmental impact is the fact that spent nuclear fuel can be and is recycled. This is important as approximately 96% of the energy from nuclear fuel is still present even after 5 years of use. While France is a leader in the recycling of nuclear fuels today, the USA which is the largest user of nuclear energy does not.
The recycling involves chemical processing that separates actinide elements and is then recycled into mixed oxide fuel which in turn produces more electrical power. This reprocessing /recycling activity can be repeated nearly 5 times. The end result is the production of concentrated glass which is then stored in disposal facilities.
Other links:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2W4v5_ZVQOA
https://world-nuclear.org/information-library/nuclear-fuel-cycle/fuel-recycling/processing-of-used-nuclear-fuel.aspx
https://www.forbes.com/sites/realspin/2014/10/01/why-doesnt-u-s-recycle-nuclear-fuel/
