The U.S. Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board has released a report containing its recommendations for managing the nation’s nuclear waste. The document represents the synthesis of the board’s nearly decade-long review of the U.S. Department of Energy’s activities related to the management and disposal of spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste.

These waste materials can be safely stored on the surface for an extended period of time if appropriate measures and programs are followed, such as processing liquid high-level waste stored in underground Source: U.S. Nuclear Waste Technical Review Boardtanks to a vitrified waste form. Progress toward disposal in an underground geologic repository as a long-term solution is urgently needed, as the lack of an acceptable disposal route is costly and a major impediment to further development of nuclear energy as part of a zero-carbon future for mitigation of climate change.

Six action items are recommended to support development of a robust, safe and effective nuclear waste management capability for the nation, including laying the groundwork for a successful geologic repository. These encompass ensuring an integrated organizational approach, anticipating required infrastructure and personnel needs and expanding the research paradigm to foster hypothesis testing. Application of an iterative, adaptive approach in developing and managing the nuclear waste management program, expanding engagement with the international community to benefit from lessons learned and embracing openness, transparency and engagement are also recommended.