France's reliance on nuclear energy is unparalleled, with atomic power at the heart of its energy strategy. But is nuclear energy a 'cleaner' source of energy?

In this week’s show, we turn the spotlight on France’s appetite for nuclear energy. It is one of the most nuclear-dependent countries in the world, with atomic power at the heart of its national energy strategy. When – and why – did France decide to bet so heavily on the atom? For decades, nuclear energy has been seen not just as a source of power, but as a cornerstone of national sovereignty. But is it really a “cleaner” source of energy?