SEPA seeks views on radioactive waste disposal guidance
18th May 2008
The principles and requirements for near-surface disposal facilities dealing with radioactive waste have been set down in a new guidance document being consulted on by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).
As Scotland's environmental regulator, SEPA is responsible for ensuring that people and the environment are protected both now and in the future. The improved guidance is intended to help deliver safe and sustainable management of radioactive wastes suitable for near-surface disposal, both during operation of disposal facilities and long after they have been closed.
SEPA's George Hunter said: "The guidance sets down the principles and requirements that we expect any near-surface disposal facility for radioactive waste to comply with. I would urge anyone with an interest in this area to send us their views.
"We want to achieve a clear understanding of the principles and requirements that developers or operators of near-surface radioactive waste disposal facilities need to meet before we can grant an authorisation for radioactive waste disposal. We believe the document sets out high environmental standards to ensure protection of people and the environment, both now and in the future."
SEPA is encouraging anyone with an interest in radioactive waste and the environment to read the document and feed back their support and concerns to the organisation. Full details of the proposals are available at www.sepa.org.uk/consultation/current/radioactive_waste/index.htm
Comments canbe made to SEPA by emailing NearSurfaceGRA[AT]sepa.org.uk by Monday 1 September.
Following this consultation and a review of the feedback received, the final guidance should be published in late 2008.
SEPA has worked with the Environment Agency in England and Wales and the Environment and Heritage Service in Northern Ireland to produce the guidance.
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