The case for deep sea disposal

The scientific justification for sea disposal is summarised and the relevant national and international codes of practice and legislation are outlined. Having examined the various hazard assessments which have been made and the results obtained from monitoring the effects caused by deep sea disposal, it is concluded that the increasingly realistic oceanographic models developed and used by the IAEA and NEA are removing most of the remaining uncertainties in predicting the consequences of disposing of low-level radioactive wastes to the deep ocean. At current dumping levels no significant return of radioactivity to man will occur and there will be no damage to the biosphere. Indeed it is considered that it would be possible to increase substantially the level of sea disposal. (U.K.)