The recycling of plutonium and uranium

As THORP (Thermal Oxide Reprocessing Plant) is given permission to start operating, the debate about whether to reprocess or not continues. The recycling of uranium and plutonium from reprocessing reduces demands on uranium reserves and maximizes the energy extracted from the reprocessed uranium and plutonium. The use of mixed oxide fuels is increasing and this will reduce the overall plutonium stocks. Not only does recycling result in cost savings but the toxicity of the waste that has to be disposed of is reduced. (UK)