[en] On the titled problems, three theme were introduced. The first was global warming protection obtained as the Kyoto protocol by agreements of relative nations. In the protocol, momentary regulation was shown for a period between 2008 and 2012. Here was explained in what form the protocol would be carried out in future. The second was summarized on roles of government and private and on how to carry out the regulation. By rapid advancement of relaxation of regulation on energy, amendments of various rules were conducted to bring its liberalization. Then, against the conventional energies such as petroleum, coal, natural gas, and so forth, new energy such as nuclear power, and so forth are largely expected. For the new energies without smooth advancement, here was explained on what had been to be done to promote or accelerate them. (G.K.)

[en] Short communication

[en] Concerning the performance of the fuel in light water reactors, its integrity is closely related with reactor safety and power generation economy. With the operating experiences of over ten years, the reliability of the fuels in PWRs and BWRs is now high. The following matters are described: fuel safety and technological standard; integrity of fuel in normal power plant operation; performance of fuel at the time of accident (reactivity and loss-of-coolant); and research subjects for the future. (Mori, K.)