Radioactive waste management in the Russian nuclear development strategy. A view of the Kurchatov Institute

This paper addresses the status and prospects of Russia's radioactive waste management system. It discusses the country's nuclear energy strategy adopted for the near term (to 2030), as well as the recently launched inception of a new technological line - closed fuel cycle with spent fuel reprocessing. A roadmap is provided for the fuel cycle back-end, including the facilities intended for final disposal of medium- and high-level waste. For the longer term, this paper outlines the 'unique diversity' of reactor systems, which would determine the choice of future fuel cycle and waste management options. (orig.)