Using compensation and incentives to site low-level radioactive waste facilities

This presentation discusses the basic principles behind the compensation and incentives approach and its incorporation in LLRW facility siting. The Midwest Compact experience is examined in detail along with several other state and compact approaches. An innovative siting simulation exercise with a strong incentive component is a also briefly discussed. Several states and compacts are now using the compensation and incentives approach to siting LLRW facilities. Surveys in Wisconsin and Pennsylvania suggest that these techniques can make a difference in public acceptance of such facilities. Other states are giving this approach serious consideration in developing their siting processes and regulations. There continues to be a reluctance to accept any form of payment for hosting an undesirable waste facility. If the compensation and incentives approach is to be successful, it must be clearly presented as an open and legitimate technique, not a sellout or buy off. It must be made clear that environmental and public health protection will not be jeopardized. Additional experience with the compensation and incentives approach to LLRW facility siting should demonstrate its effectiveness. 8 references, 1 table