Radioactive waste disposal in the United States of America

The United States of America has well established national policies for the management and disposal of radioactive waste, which ensure the health and safety of the public, common defence and security, and protection of the environment. These policies call for safe permanent disposal of spent fuel and high level radioactive waste (HLW) in a geological repository and for surface/subsurface land disposal of low level radioactive waste (LLW). They are directed at ensuring long term containment and isolation of waste from the environment. The paper provides an overview of the laws and responsibilities for implementing these policies. The paper also outlines a safety framework, strategies and the open public process for regulating radioactive waste disposal. While carrying out these regulatory responsibilities, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission staff has gained significant experience in developing and implementing regulatory approaches for waste disposal and has enhanced the regulatory process through lessons learned. However, challenges remain, including: (a) making decisions in the face of technical uncertainties over long time periods; (b) developing innovative approaches to public outreach to increase public understanding and involvement in the regulatory process; and (c) knowledge management. (author)