it can be, ive seen reports that new technology is practically harmless. but, that tech can never really be exploited because of regulatory red-tape. Its not necessary for the reactors that are running to be as dangerous as they are or produce as little power as they do. This is an argument i heard years ago. If the Nuclear Regulatory Commision actually let reactors run at near capacity. a hand full of power plants could power the entire country. everything could be electric and you would never have to see a drop of foreign oil. Our current petroleum reserves with recycling would last for centuries.... and longer....