Journal article
The unintended effects from halting nuclear power production: Evidence from Fukushima Daiichi accident
Columbia University1
Nagoya City University2
Department of Technology, Management and Economics, Technical University of Denmark3
Sustainability, Department of Technology, Management and Economics, Technical University of Denmark4
Climate Economics and Risk Management, Sustainability, Society and Economics, Department of Technology, Management and Economics, Technical University of Denmark5
This paper provides novel evidence of the unintended health effects stemming from the halt in nuclear power production after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident. After the accident, nuclear power stations ceased operation and nuclear power was replaced by fossil fuels, causing an increase in electricity prices.
We find that this increase led to a reduction in energy consumption, which caused an increase in mortality during very cold temperatures, given the protective role that climate control plays against the elements. Our results contribute to the debate surrounding the use of nuclear as a source of energy by documenting a yet unexplored health benefit from using nuclear power, and more broadly to regulatory policy approaches implemented during periods of scientific uncertainty about potential adverse effects.
Language: | English |
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Year: | 2021 |
Pages: | 102507 |
ISSN: | 18791646 and 01676296 |
Types: | Journal article |
DOI: | 10.1016/j.jhealeco.2021.102507 |
ORCIDs: | Veronesi, Marcella and 0000-0002-2803-4734 |
Energy prices Fukushima Daiichi accident Mortality Nuclear energy Precautionary principle SDG 13 - Climate Action SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy Temperature