Multi-solutions to the disposal of radioactive waste in China

Nuclear power industry has rapidly developed in China for more than 30 years. However, the disposal for low level radioactive wastes (LLW) is somewhat lagged behind, and become one of the bottle-necks for nuclear power industry. The safety, economics and social acceptance (NIMBY) are major obstacles. Unique 'regional disposal' and non-market mode which was adopted in 1990 s does not suit for the new situation anymore. Waste disposal modes should be diversified and marketized. The industry and local governments would decide the way of LLW disposal according to the safety, economics and social impact. 'Regional disposal', 'on-site disposal' and 'centralized disposal' have their own merits for different conditions. The government should introduce more flexible policies and let the industry has more solutions to select for their LLW disposal in a sustainable way. 'Regional disposal' and 'on-site disposal' have been discussed and in implementation, but the concept of 'centralized disposal' is not commonly recognized in China. This paper discusses the pros and cons about 'centralized disposal' and compare it with the other two disposal modes in terms of safety, economics and social impact. The current government's policy of grand development of the west region supports private enterprises. The policy of coordinated development of various regions encourages the use of advantages of the west regions to form safe, sustainable and win-win mechanism for disposal of LLWs in China. (authors)