Atomic crossroads: Poland's nuclear future

This BBC World Service documentary, 'Atomic Crossroads: Poland's Nuclear Future,' explores Poland's ambitious and controversial push to build its first nuclear power plant in Lubietowo-Kopalino, a project that has divided communities, ignited environmental concerns, and reignited national debates over energy sovereignty. The episode traces the journey from the cleared forests of northern Poland to the ruins of the abandoned Żarnowiec nuclear project from the 1980s, revealing how the trauma of Chernobyl once halted progress, but recent geopolitical tensions—especially Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent cutoff of gas supplies—have dramatically shifted public opinion. While locals like restaurateur Maximilian Milavich see economic opportunity and energy independence, others like environmental activist Aleksandra Alexandrovich Woods and holiday home owner Jolanta Gruba fear ecological destruction and tourism decline. The documentary examines the deep historical, political, and emotional stakes, questioning whether Poland can overcome past failures and build a sustainable nuclear future with foreign technology and massive state-backed investment. Despite skepticism and environmental warnings, the government and state-owned PEJ remain committed, citing high public support and financial backing from the EU and international banks.