The Government of Canada has given the green light to the Nuclear Waste Management Organization’s (NWMO) integrated strategy for radioactive waste.

The organization submitted its strategy to government in June for review. The plan outlines an integrated, national approach to the long-term management of Canada’s radioactive waste.

It makes two key recommendations for the overall approach to radioactive waste management: 

• that intermediate-level waste and non-fuel high-level waste are to be disposed of in a deep geological repository with implementation by the NWMO, and
• that low-level waste is to be disposed of in multiple near-surface disposal facilities with implementation by waste generators and waste owners.

With the approval in place, NWMO will begin developing a plan for a consent-based siting process for a repository for intermediate-level and non-fuel high-level waste. That process is separate from the work being done to develop a deep geological repository for the long-term disposal of used nuclear fuel.

“Canada’s leadership in nuclear technology creates a responsibility for the management of the waste generated,” said Laurie Swami, NWMO President and CEO. “We have heard clearly that Canadians and Indigenous Peoples want action taken now, rather than leaving this to future generations. The NWMO is proud to be developing world-class expertise here in Canada that the rest of the world is looking to as they address the same challenges. We look forward to bringing this expertise to our role in implementing this strategy, including the next step of developing a consent-based siting process for a repository for intermediate-level and non-fuel, high-level waste.”

The NWMO strategy reflects international best practices and is the product of more than two years’ worth of extensive engagement with Indigenous Peoples and Canadians across the country.

With the strategy in place, waste owners must now implement the recommendations and develop more detailed waste management plans, with oversight from the federal government and in line with international standards. Waste owners will also work to update the strategy by 2028 to ensure it reflects progress in planning and implementation and advancements in science and technology.

All radioactive waste generated in Canada is managed according to international best practices that are based on the best available science. A comprehensive legislative framework for nuclear energy and technologies, including radioactive waste, also focuses on protecting health, safety, security and the environment.