How is radioactive waste managed?

Radioactive waste is managed through containment, isolation, and monitoring to protect people and the environment.

Radioactive waste comes from various sources, including nuclear power plants, medical treatments, and scientific research. The waste is categorised into different levels based on its radioactivity: low-level, intermediate-level, and high-level waste. Each type requires different management strategies.

Low-level waste, which includes items like clothing and tools that have been exposed to radiation, is often compacted and buried in shallow landfills. These landfills are specially designed to prevent the waste from leaking into the environment.

Intermediate-level waste, such as reactor components and certain chemical sludges, is more radioactive and requires more robust containment. This waste is typically encased in concrete or bitumen and stored in deep underground facilities. These facilities are engineered to isolate the waste from the biosphere for thousands of years.

High-level waste, which is the most radioactive, comes mainly from spent nuclear fuel. This waste generates a lot of heat and requires cooling. Initially, it is stored in water-filled pools at the reactor site to cool down. After several years, it can be transferred to dry casks made of steel and concrete for longer-term storage. Some countries are developing deep geological repositories, where high-level waste can be buried deep underground in stable rock formations, ensuring it remains isolated for tens of thousands of years.

Throughout the entire process, rigorous monitoring and safety measures are in place to detect any potential leaks or radiation exposure. This ensures that radioactive waste is managed in a way that minimises risks to human health and the environment.