15. Why is geological disposal the preferred option?

In 2006, given current knowledge, the independent Committee on Radioactive Waste Management, CoRWM, recommended deep geological disposal as the preferred option for the long term management of higher activity radioactive waste. However, CoRWM said it was important to undertake further research and development to reduce uncertainties about the long-term safety of geological disposal and that there was flexibility to leave open the possibility of other practical alternatives for the long-term management of the waste.

Geological disposal is also internationally recognised as the preferred approach for the long-term management of higher activity radioactive waste.

However, part of the role of the Partnership will be to test all the arguments and to come to a view about whether a facility might be an appropriate approach for people living in West Cumbria. If a decision is made to participate in the next stage of this process the issues would be explored in more detail before any final decision on whether or not to host a facility in the area.

To find out more information about geological disposal and what other countries are doing visit the Department of Energy and Climate Change's website.

To find out more about CoRWM visit their website.

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