6:00- 6:30- Reception
6:30- 8:30- Program
Academy of Natural Sciences- 19th St and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway

For many years the Philadelphia region has had difficulties meeting federal air quality standards under the Clean Air Act. As scientists improve their understanding of how air pollution impacts public health, these standards are becoming more stringent, and thus, more challenging for the Philadelphia area to meet. Furthermore, while the federal government has been unable to pass national climate change legislation thus far, the onus falls to states and municipalities to take the lead in reducing their greenhouse gas contributions. The technological options available to help our region reduce both air pollution and greenhouse gases are limited.

One controversial solution has been offered with the blessing of some environmental groups: nuclear energy. Nuclear power offers an opportunity to maintain our energy consumption with virtually no air pollution or greenhouse gases, unlike coal, oil, or natural gas. Yet, the technology is expensive and brings up another environmental issue: long-lasting radioactive waste. Is nuclear power an environmentally acceptable answer to air pollution and global warming? Let the debate begin!

Confirmed speakers:

• Joseph Otis Minott, Esq., Executive Director, Clean Air Council (Moderator)

• Michael Mariotte, Executive Director for the Nuclear Information and Resource Service

• Paul Genoa, Senior Director for Policy, Nuclear Energy Institute

Register today to reserve your seat: http://nuclearoption.eventbrite.com/