There is a potential crisis looming related to the world's need for energy. On the one hand, energy demands are growing every day, and could double by 2050. On the other hand, burning of traditional fossil fuels to generate electricity is contributing to the increase in greenhouse gases. Would it be advisable to increase the number of nuclear power plants as an energy source for meeting this increasing demand for electricity? This article explores nuclear energy and its effect on humans and the environment. (Contains 3 figures.)