Progress towards the demonstration of safe disposal of spent fuel and high level radioactive waste: A critical issue for nuclear power

In summary, public and political opposition to disposal of spent fuel and high level waste remains a critical obstacle to the growth of nuclear power. Progress towards the demonstration of safe disposal must be made in the near future if the nuclear option is to remain viable. While international organizations have an important role to play in achieving public and political acceptance of the nuclear option, countries need to develop effective national strategies to bridge the credibility gap between the waste management specialists and the public. Development of sound national policies, scientifically based repository development programmes, effective communication with the public, and use of independent oversight and peer review are a few of the measures that can contribute to progress in this area