| Abstract [eng] |
The IAEA’s statutory role is to “seek to accelerate and enlarge the contribution of atomic energy to peace, health and prosperity throughout the world”. Among other functions, the IAEA is authorized to “foster the exchange of scientific and technical information on peaceful uses of atomic energy”. One way this is achieved is through a range of technical publications including the IAEA Nuclear Energy Series. The IAEA Nuclear Energy Series comprises publications designed to further the use of nuclear technologies in support of sustainable development, to advance nuclear science and technology, catalyse innovation and build capacity to support the existing and expanded use of nuclear power and nuclear science applications. The publications include information covering all policy, technological and management aspects of the definition and implementation of activities involving the peaceful use of nuclear technology. The IAEA safety standards establish fundamental principles, requirements and recommendations to ensure nuclear safety and serve as a global reference for protecting people and the environment from harmful effects of ionizing radiation. When IAEA Nuclear Energy Series publications address safety, it is ensured that the IAEA safety standards are referred to as the current boundary conditions for the application of nuclear technology. Radioactive materials are widely used for many purposes in medicine, research, agriculture and industry, as well as for generating electricity using nuclear energy. The management of the radioactive waste generated through activities in these areas is often perceived as a challenge. In particular, implementing disposal as the final step in a radioactive waste management programme remains one of the major challenges that many Member States need to address. Experience around the world suggests that the scientific and technological bases for the safe and secure implementation of disposal are available — disposal solutions exist or can be developed based on established knowledge. However, continuing concerns and opposition among the public and other stakeholders have slowed or so far prevented the implementation of specific radioactive waste disposal programmes. This publication is aimed at providing practical information on communication and stakeholder involvement associated with radioactive waste disposal for interested Member States, especially those embarking on, relaunching or revising a disposal programme. It also emphasizes that practical implementation requires adjusting to the evolving context as given by the national, social and political circumstances. This publication draws on experiences in those Member States where communication and stakeholder involvement can be seen to have enabled significant progress towards repository development. In addition, references are also made to programmes where amendments are considered necessary following lack of progress due to difficulties in communication and stakeholder involvement. The IAEA wishes to acknowledge the assistance of the experts listed at the end of this report, in particular P. Richardson (United Kingdom) and S.J. Robinson (United Kingdom). The IAEA officers responsible for this publication were A. Izumo and S. Mayer of the Division of Nuclear Fuel Cycle and Waste Technology. |
