Official approval of plans for the ultimate storage of radioactive waste

The author presents a detailed review of fundamental requirements of plan approval under atomic energy law in relation to the permits to be issued for the exploratory work at the Gorleben salt mine. The aspects discussed comprise: Acceptability in terms of law of the matter under review, material requirements, definition and approval of procedural steps - probably similar to the practice adopted for part-permits given for nuclear power plants. As regards the Gorleben exploratory activities, a plan approval procedure as set by section 9, subsection (1) Atomic Energy Act is not necessary since the goals of said activities do not include or inevitably entail the erection of the storage facilities. Even if this opinion is not accepted, the author says, the planned work will nevertheless not require a first part-approval under atomic energy law, or under constitutional law. What is indeed required is a permit under mining law and other, related laws governing licenses in the field of public law. (HSCH)