nuclear-news

Government to Revise Basic Policy on Final Disposal of Nuclear Waste for First Time in Eight Years

February 2, 2023
The Japanese government has decided to revise its basic policy for the first time in eight years toward the final disposal of high-level radioactive waste (so-called “nuclear waste”) generated by nuclear power generation.

The government has decided to implement “geological disposal,” in which a final disposal site will be established and buried deeper than 300 meters below the ground. However, the number of target areas has not increased since then, and there are calls from local residents to expand their interest nationwide.

Against this backdrop, the government has decided to revise for the first time in eight years its basic policy outlining the details of its efforts to realize final disposal, and has compiled a new draft basic policy.

The draft clearly states that “the government will work together and under its own responsibility toward the final disposal of the waste,” and it also states that the government will take a front-loaded approach to the issue.

The proposal also includes a new initiative to hold discussions with the heads of local governments where nuclear power plants are located, among other things.

Through these efforts, the government hopes to increase the number of regions that will accept surveys and move forward with the selection of a final disposal site.
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/html/20230202/k10013968751000.html?fbclid=IwAR1N8fy-DN4FoPsdEzJjArdrYv5VO5EQiw85zrb7D3Y_xT3P2ONvtnl- PCc

February 4, 2023 - Posted by dunrenard | Japan | geological disposal, High level radioactive waste