1 Feb (NucNet): France has demonstrated “a comprehensive commitment” to nuclear safety with a responsible approach to the management of radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel, an International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team of experts said.
The Integrated Review Service for Radioactive Waste and Spent Fuel Management, Decommissioning and Remediation (Artemis) team concluded an 11-day mission to France on 24 January 2018. Artemis missions provide independent expert advice from an international team of specialists convened by the IAEA.
The IAEA said on 31 January 2018 that the mission aimed to help the country meet European Union obligations that require an independent peer review of national programmes for the management of spent fuel and radioactive waste.
The team said there was a clear government commitment to the national strategy and programme for waste management, including safe disposal.
The team suggested a number of improvements, including implementation of the requirement for decommissioning to take place in the shortest time possible, and improving the management of very low-level waste.
Nuclear power generates more than 70% of France’s electricity. The country has 58 operating nuclear power reactors, which will require the continuing safe management of radioactive waste and spent fuel. France operates facilities for the disposal of very low-level and low-level waste, and is developing a deep geological repository for the disposal of high-level waste.
