World status of radioactive waste management

Almost all the 112 member states of the IAEA generate radioactive waste. This article briefly surveys activities that are being undertaken in these states to ensure that radioactive wastes are managed safely. Some outstanding issues - government policies and public opinion, international cooperation and geological disposal of waste products, are also discussed. The practice in 25 countries for low and intermediate-level (short-lived) wastes is tabulated (eg volume reduction, disposal). National strategies for high-level and alpha-wastes are tabulated for 13 countries (eg immobilization, disposal). Nuclear fuel reprocessing is also considered and major high-level waste and spent-fuel disposal facilities in 6 countries are tabulated. (UK)