Sustainability and Equity Challenges of Nuclear Fission and Fusion

The sustainability and long-term viability of nuclear fission and fusion as energy sources may be an important topic in view of the recent changes in the political scenario worldwide. This paper provides a framework for comparatively evaluating both technologies vs renewable sources towards a stable and sustainable energy future. We focus on a first quantification of risks, including technological requirements, strategic material demand, energy efficiency and performance metrics, fuel availability constraints, and inherent technical feasibility challenges. Special attention is paid to the scale of infrastructure and research efforts required, and the critical balance between net energy return and total environmental impact.