Why is plutonium reprocessing a significant environmental issue?

Plutonium reprocessing is significant from an environmental perspective primarily due to the hazards associated with transporting nuclear waste. The transportation of nuclear materials, including reprocessed plutonium, can present risks such as accidents, leaks, or even potential incidents involving terrorism. These risks can have profound implications for both human health and the environment, especially for coastal nations that may be near shipping routes or receiving endpoints for nuclear materials. Therefore, the environmental concerns center not only on the management of the materials themselves but also on the safety and ecological impact involved in their transportation. This consideration makes it a critical issue within the realm of nuclear energy and waste management.