Danger of Waste and Emissions

For coal, toxic substances found in the waste are harmful to humans and the environment. Also, coal plants are the top source of CO2 emissions, the primary cause of global warming, smog, acid rain, and toxic air pollution. A typical coal plant generates 3.5 million tons of carbon dioxide each year.

For nuclear energy, although low, medium, and high levels of radioactive waste are dangerous, high levels of radiation are the worst for living matter. Through a large multi-step process, all types of waste can be disposed of safely.
During a nuclear reaction, 3 types of radioactive rays can be released: alpha, beta, and gamma. Gamma rays are the most dangerous, but cannot penetrate lead. Humans handling radioactive materials take the utmost precaution so they don't get exposed. Also, various safety precautions are in place so in the event of an earthquake, the generators shut down immediately.

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Levels of carbon monoxide from various sources.