Over 20 nations call for tripling of nuclear energy

More than 20 countries called for the tripling of world nuclear energy capacity at the COP28 climate conference in Dubai on Saturday as part of efforts to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. A declaration endorsed by nations ranging from the United States to Ghana to Japan and several European countries said nuclear energy plays a "key role" in reaching the goal of carbon neutrality.

US climate envoy John Kerry said tripling down on nuclear energy commitments are "essential" in defining the choice of the future. The use of nuclear energy as a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels is controversial as environmental groups are concerned about safety and the disposal of nuclear waste.