Search Results for keywords:"High-Level Radioactive Waste"

The Department of Energy (DOE) announced a change to its Radioactive Waste Management Manual and an administrative update to the Radioactive Waste Management order. These changes incorporate DOE's interpretation of what qualifies as high-level radioactive waste (HLW), based on the Atomic Energy Act and the Nuclear Waste Policy Act. The interpretation clarifies that not all reprocessing waste is classified as HLW; instead, it depends on the waste's radiological characteristics and whether it meets specific disposal criteria. The changes aim to ensure the safe management and disposal of DOE's waste and invite public input and reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) plans to draft an environmental assessment as part of the process to dispose of contaminated equipment, including a drill string, bubblers, and pumps, from the Savannah River Site. These items, contaminated with radioactive waste, are being considered for commercial low-level radioactive waste disposal at facilities outside South Carolina. This action is part of the DOE's efforts to manage waste efficiently, improve worker safety, and assist in the environmental cleanup of the site. The proposed evaluation will explore environmental impacts, including health, safety, and transportation concerns, associated with moving the waste to licensed facilities, potentially in Utah or Texas.