Nuclear Wastes

After uranium is used to power nuclear power plants, there is always a waste product that has to be disposed of. Also, any equipment or other materials that come into contact with radiation can become radioactive, or able to emit harmful radiation to the environment. Therefore, waste products produced by nuclear power plants are considered hazardous. This is one drawback of nuclear power—these wastes have to be handled carefully.

We categorize radioactive waste into three categories. In the US, this classification is based on where the waste comes from. In other parts of the world, it is based on the effect the waste has on the environment. Wastes from the nuclear fuel cycle fall into one of these categories. You can click on each level of the pyramid to learn more.

Currently in the U. S., nuclear waste is stored throughout the country, most often in the dry storage casks that are sealed with concrete and steel to help prevent leaks. Plans were once underway to build a long-term deep underground storage facility in Yucca Mountain, Nevada. But on March 5, 2009, the administration of U. S. President Barack Obama indicated that Yucca Mountain was no longer being considered as an option for hazardous radioactive waste disposal. As of March 2009, there are no official alternative options that have been announced.

Why do you think high-level nuclear waste should ideally be stored deep underground?

Deep underground burial lessens the chance that our environment will be exposed to radiation in the case of leaks. It poses less threat to groundwater and to people and animals.

What type of site do you think is most appropriate for deep underground burial of HLW?

Sites that are not prone to earthquakes or volcanoes are best. The site should be far away from major areas of human population and have very deep soils and little access to water that might be used for drinking.