Blix: 'Global warming greater threat than WMDs'

Dr Hans Blix, the former United Nations (UN) chief weapons inspector, warned that climate change is a much greater threat than nuclear weapons, while advocating the promotion of the peaceful use of nuclear technology.

"The threat against the global environment and global warming are a greater threat than weapons of mass destruction. It is of utmost imperative that the whole world reduces the emission of greenhouse gases," he said, adding, "nuclear power can give the world enormous amounts of electricity without giving any greenhouse gases."

"The (nuclear non-proliferation) treaty (NPT) is under strain, but I think it is an exaggeration to say it is falling apart," Blix said, while admitting that Iran obtaining nuclear weapons would create "a long-term domino effect which would be very serious for this part of the world."

"The region would be much less tense if they didn't enrich their own fuel," Blix said, while conceding that Iran had the right to do so to support civilian nuclear technology. "But you don't need to exercise every right," he added.

He was speaking on 25 January, the final day of a trip to Egypt to promote the Weapons of Mass Destruction Commission's (WMDC's) report on reducing weapons of mass destruction worldwide. Blix is Chairman of the WMDC.

Jordan and Egypt recently announced plans to create programs for the peaceful use of nuclear technology. Blix said that he is "positive to Jordan and also positive to Egypt for nuclear power. It takes a little while to do this, at least ten years."

However, he named three areas of concern that must be addressed before Arab countries would be ready to launch their programs: operational safety, waste disposal safety and non-proliferation.

"We will need then to have a system... of commitments on non-proliferation and a system of inspection in place to give the confidence," he said.

Blix urged Egypt to sign the Additional Protocol to the NPT, giving the International Atomic Energy Association (IAEA) greater access to information and greater ability to conduct inspections. Jordan has agreed to the additional measures, according to the IAEA.

"I think it is desirable for world confidence that nuclear power is being used for peaceful purposes. A good and effective inspection system is needed. I hope Egypt joins as soon as possible," he said.

Further information

Weapons of Mass Destruction Commission

WNA's Global Warming - the Science information paper
WNA's Global Warming - Policy Responses information paper
WNA's Safeguards to Prevent Nuclear Proliferation information paper