Fuel cycle: front-end and back-end relationships

The relationship between the front and back ends of the nuclear fuel cycle must be recognized and provided for if nuclear energy is to fully contribute to long-term national energy needs. Breeder reactors and possibly advanced converter reactors are essential to closing the fuel cycle and extending the energy available from uranium. Immediate investments in reprocessing and recycling facilities can save on later costs at the front end, but advocates of this approach have not been able to persuade policymakers that it is costly to delay until the proliferation issue is resolved. A non-proliferation policy is suggested that would take positive steps to reduce risks by improving design and technology programs and improving institutional arrangements