The radioactive waste that is created during the creation of nuclear power is dangerous for thousands of years. Although measures have been taken to safely store this hazardous material, especially during the first millennium when it is most hazardous, problems have still been had.

Groundwater entering burial sites and the subsequent corrosion of waste canisters has led to the leakage of radioactive waste and provides a possible opportunity for this hazardous material to work its way to the surface environment ("Nuclear Reactor").

These leaks have affected all living species, from the bottom of the food chain up. Algae, crustaceans, fish, all the way to finally humans have been needlessly exposed to radiation from nuclear waste. And, as Helen Caldicott, the founder of the Nuclear Power Research Institute has been quoted,...

Hays).
With the reduced benefits of environmental friendliness in the original production of energy, coupled with the risks associated with nuclear waste, it becomes clear that the benefits of nuclear power do not outweigh the risks.

References

Hays, M. "Risks of Nuclear Power Not Worth it." Arizona Republic (6 Jul 2005). November 25, 2006 http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/opinions/articles/0706wedlets069.html.

Lipper, I. & Stone, J. Nuclear Energy and Society. No date. University of Michigan. November 25, 2006 http://www.umich.edu/~gs265/society/nuclear.htm.

Nuclear Reactor." Encyclopedia Britannica. 2006. Encyclopedia Britannica Online. November 25, 2006 http://www.search.eb.com/eb/article-45804.