Nuclear energy faces manifold problems, among the most important of which is unfavourable public opinion. But one powerful factor - global warming - remains in its favour. Fission, if considerably expanded, could contribute significantly to reducing carbon emissions. Over the longer term, this could be both feasible and desirable. Research and development in all non-fossil energy resources, including fission, should proceed apace. Improvements in the safeguards surrounding nuclear operations and non-proliferation must also be vigorously pursued and publicly explained both to improve safety and to enhance the public perception of nuclear energy. Over time, such initiatives may well be worth the effort.