There have been intensive technical and scientific collaborations over the years on the final disposal of high-level radioactive waste and spent fuel. International dialogues at the strategic and policy levels can help further facilitate the exchange of existing approaches, both in the implementation of the high-level radioactive waste management policies, programmes and in regulatory oversight.
The NEA, the United States Department of Energy and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan jointly organised international roundtable discussions on the final disposal of high-level radioactive waste and spent fuel. At these meetings, policymakers from 15 countries and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) gathered and shared knowledge about public understanding and technological development related to final disposal.
A new NEA report summarises the discussions held and experiences shared at these roundtable sessions held during 2019 and 2020. The report collects key findings and policy messages from these discussions about the role of governments and how to strengthen international co-operation for stakeholder and public engagement, and technological collaboration. It compiles the country-specific best practices and strategies identified by participating countries that could advance radioactive waste disposal solutions.
