Will Trump weaponize space?

Beyond Nuclear board member, Karl Grossman, writing in Counterpunch today, says it's likely. 

"It is highly likely that the Trump administration will move to have the U.S. deploy weapons in space. If this happens, it will be profoundly destabilizing, setting off an arms race and, also likely, leading to war in space.

For decades there’s been interest by U.S. administrations—the Reagan administration with its “Star Wars” plan a leading example—in placing weapons in space. But that has alternated with some administrations more-or-less opposed, the Obama administration an example.

Still, no matter the administration, since work at the United Nations began in 1985 on a treaty seeking, as its title declares, the Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space, the U.S. has not supported it. Canada, Russia and China have been leaders in urging passage of this PAROS treaty, and there has been virtually universal backing from nations around the world. But by balking, U.S. administration after administration has prevented its passage."

Read the full article.

Lessons from Seabrook nuclear fight remain to be learned

Beyond Nuclear's Paul Gunter (left), also a founder of the Clamshell Alliance that opposed construction of the Seabrook, NH nuclear power reactors, gave some insight to the Cape Cod Times on why the dangers persist -- particularly at the Pilgrim, MA nuclear reactor, the same design as those that blew up and melted down at Fukushima Daiichi, Japan. Read the full article.

New Beyond Nuclear palm card explains radiation risks to women and children

Every nuclear power plant routinely releases radioactive contaminants — gases, liquids and particles — during its daily operation and during refueling. It does not take an accident. Exposure to these releases is dangerous to human health, and especially during childhood and pregnancy. Many who live close to nuclear power plants -- especially women and children -- are under-informed or unaware of the risks these nuclear power plants pose to their health. Our new Beyond Nuclear Palm Card (also available in Fact Sheet format) is designed to help activists and others inform our most vulnerable. We encourage you to print and distribute them widely.

Why Rauner should veto Exelon's bailout

An op-ed has been published by Crain's, written by Dave Lundy, director of the Best Coalition. Best Coalition is described as a diverse group of consumer, business and energy interests.

Vietnam cancels nuclear power plans, South Africa delays theirs

In another retreat on the nuclear power front, Vietnam has decided to abandon plans to pursue nuclear power in that country. Meanwhile, just days later, South Africa announced it would delay plans to develop nuclear power. Both countries had deals with Russia's Rosatom, while Vietnam was also looking to Japan for contracts. A South African-German-Japanese delegation that traveled to Vietnam was instrumental in providing information to the government there which resulted in the cancelation of nuclear plans. Tellingly, it was the first time officials there had ever heard contrary positions (read: "facts") to nuclear promotion. One member, South African economist, David Fig, has written about that development and the lessons there for South Africa and other countries with large rural populations lacking electricity infrastructure and means. Read more.