World Nuclear Association

World Nuclear Association is a London based nuclear industry lobby group that seeks "to promote nuclear power as a sustainable energy resource". Established in 1975, the lobby was formerly known as the Uranium Institute but in 2001 changed its name to the World Nuclear Association. The lobby argues that there is a need for "5,000 new reactors worldwide at a minimum" to adequately address the world's electricity needs. Nuclear Energy is "not just an option but a necessity for survival" WNA argues.(The Guardian, August 12, 2004)

In a speech, John Ritch, the director general of WNA said: "As a step toward energy independence and as an urgent environmental imperative, it is essential that national governments take the steps necessary to incentivise immediate nuclear investments." Ritch advocated accelerating "the nuclear renaissance for reasons of national interest and the global environment". (Sunday Telegraph, May 1, 2005)

While the WNA is confident that it can overcome the resistance of some european countries to nuclear energy, according to Stephen Kidd, its director of strategy and research, "[u]ntil the US starts building a large number of new reactors, any recovery elsewhere will not be that pronounced, as everyone looks to the US as the leader" (Financial Times, November 10, 2004)

Key Personnel

• Director General: John Ritch
• Chairman: Jose Luis Gonzalez
• Vice Chairman: Ralf Güldner
• Director of Strategy & Research: Stephen Kidd

Council of Advisors

• Chairman: Hans Blix
• Chairman: Zack Pate

Contact Details

Web Address:	http://www.world-nuclear.org
Address:	Carlton House, 22a St. James's Square London, SW1Y 4JH United Kingdom
Phone:	+44 (0)20 7451 1520
Fax:	+44 (0)20 7839 1501