Decommissioning of RTGs in north-west Russia: The Norwegian approach focusing on risk and environmental impact assessments

The nuclear legacy in north-west Russia continues to be a large concern for Russia's neighbouring countries, the international community and indeed Russia itself. Potential radiation hazards to humans and the environment from accidents at nuclear installations and waste storages should be a focus area. The process of removing a potential radiation hazard may lead to an increase in risk in the short term. However, this risk is usually of minor importance when decommissioning radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs), compared with future potential risks if the 'do nothing' option is chosen. Removing and securing RTGs has been a priority task for Norway in recent years. Fifty-five RTGs were removed and secured by the end of 2004. A further 31 RTGs are planned to be decommissioned in 2005. It is important to minimize risks when decommissioning. Risk assessments and environmental impact assessments that address different options are key tools used to provide a minimum risk to humans and the environment from a specific measure. Such an assessment was performed in 2004, and additional assessments are planned during 2005 activities. International consensus on requirements for these assessments is needed to reduce potential risks from radioactive contamination, especially when Western donor countries fund specific projects in Russia. (author)