As we mark #NuclearScienceWeek 2020, we’re chatting with Dr. Eric Johnston, NII’s Chief Innovation Officer. During this international week-long celebration of nuclear science, we asked Eric about the importance of nuclear science and energy literacy as Canada works towards its goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.
“Per unit of power, nuclear is one of the least carbon-producing sources of energy,” says Eric. “Ontario has done a great job of decarbonization already through nuclear power—and I strongly believe that nuclear is a key part of Canada’s net-zero goals.”
So, what nuclear-related topics should Canadians keep an eye out for in the news?
“Some exciting projects that NII and its partners are working on include teaming up with research on small modular reactors (SMRs), new nuclear designs using different fuels, and how made-in-Ontario clean energy solutions are helping fight climate change,” describes Eric.
“It’s an exciting time for nuclear science,” he says. “And one of NII’s goals is to increase energy literacy by sharing our work with the public—so that we can all make informed decisions as we talk about the future of energy.”
Get to know a bit more about Eric and the projects he's heading up at NII.