EPA's development of high level waste disposal standards

A representative of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) describes the objectives of the national program to develop disposal methods for high-level radioactive waste and to define EPA's role in the new multi-agency approach. EPA's contributions include environmental standards for the selection, operation, and closing of nuclear waste storage sites. Its charge, as expressed in new rulings, is to see that waste disposal is prompt and effective, and that containment and assurance requirements are complementary. Enforcement comes through the Nuclear Regulatory Commission rather than the EPA. The author reviews several issues raised during the public comment period because of concern over public health and safety