Site selection procedure for an L/ILW repository in Hungary

In 1992, after two siting attempts in the 1980s has ended in failure, the Hungarian Government launched a national project aimed at establishing a repository for low and intermediate level radioactive wastes. In the first stage, comprehensive desk studies were performed, making extensive use of systematic screening, using suitable exclusion criteria and methodology and utilizing available data. Between 1993 and 1995, some 300 geological objects were identified as potentially suitable for either near surface or tunnel type (mined cavity) disposal. In the second stage, suitable geological objects were screened to identify and rank potential formations. By October 1995, the number of favoured (candidate) sites was reduced to three, with three more held in reserve. During the whole process a systematic public consultation programme, making use of the services of a professional public relations company, was implemented. This programme made it possible to identify six sites at which the local public supports the eventual establishment of a repository. The paper describes the results of the site selection and other related activities. (author). 3 refs, 1 tab