A Solution That Works! Radioactive Waste Management in the Netherlands

Abstract

In the Netherlands the policy to manage radioactive waste is somewhat different from that in other countries. The philosophy is that hazardous materials must be isolated, controlled and monitored. This is done by securing containment of radioactive waste in terms of organisational aspects as well as in terms of physical treatment. Really long-term, i.e. at least 100 years, storage in above ground engineered structures of low, medium and high level waste, including spent fuel and TENORM is the first element in the Dutch policy. Secondly, and included in the policy are all necessary steps to be taken for the longer term. The burden will not be transferred to the next generations because a clear system of liabilities is created and the availability of finances is guaranteed for the future. For a country with a small nuclear power programme and an important amount of waste from other applications of radioactive materials, it is a practical solution that works.