nuclear-news

Campaigners warned the rising discharges could have a devastating effect on surrounding wildlife and communities after a report by investigative journalism platform The Ferret stated emissions of one byproduct, cobalt-60, could rise by more than 50 times.  ……..

The Ferret reported the discharge of cobalt-60 would rise to 23.4 million units of radioactivity annually – around 52 times the current level.

It added emissions of a second substance, known as tritium, would increase by 30 times to around 175,000 units, or ‘megabecquerels’, every year……..

SEPA’s public consultation is open until 13th Match and we welcome all responses. All responses will be reviewed in detail to ensure we continue to safeguard the environment and human health.”

The bases are due to receive at least five more submarines in the coming years, including an ageing Trafalgar vessel and three new Astute submersible. 

The Ferret said a 50-strong group of Nuclear-Free Local Authorities (NFLA) had objected to the discharges.

NFLA Scotland convener, Glasgow SNP councillor Feargal Dalton told The Ferret: “NFLA is particularly concerned about the considerable uncertainties in modelling doses and an under-appreciation of the effects of tritium”.

“There are effective alternatives to nuclear powered submarines, as pioneered by the likes of Japan, and the Ministry of Defence should make a serious attempt to look at them.” https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/18272691.mod-planning-dump-50-times-nuclear-waste-river-clyde/