Knowledge vs. Facts: Clean Air

Ann Stouffer Bisconti, PhD

Bisconti Research, Inc.

April - May 2024

Nuclear energy’s essential role as a major source of clean energy is increasingly recognized internationally and in the United States, but the U.S. public has not yet caught up with world leaders. Clean air is one of the most valued considerations in electricity production.  See “What Does the Public Value in Electricity Development?” (www.bisconti.com/blog) However, only 18 percent in this survey knew that nuclear energy emits no air pollution or, arguably, a tiny amount.

When presented with information about nuclear energy’s clean air role, majorities rated the information both highly surprising and highly important.  

These findings are from questions asked in the 2024 National Nuclear Energy Public Opinion Survey. The new national survey was conducted from April 30 to May 2, 2024 by Bisconti Research, Inc., using a nationally representative sample of 1,000 people drawn from the Quest Mindshare Online Panel of 3.5 million people in the U.S. The margin of error is plus or minus 3 percentage points.  

Knowledge

To the best of your knowledge, on a scale of 0 to 10, how much air pollution does each of the following sources of electricity emit? %

Correct answer for nuclear: 0-1

Facts 

Here are some facts about nuclear energy.

• Please rate each fact on how much it is new and surprising to you.

• Please rate each fact on its importance.

 Nuclear energy is America’s largest source of clean energy—46% in 2023; wind is second with 25% in 2023. Nuclear energy also is a reliable and efficient source that produces electricity 24/7. (%)

© Ann Stouffer Bisconti, 2024.