France demonstrated a comprehensive commitment to safety with a responsible approach to the management of radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) experts said on Wednesday.
The Integrated Review Service for Radioactive Waste and Spent Fuel Management, Decommissioning and Remediation (ARTEMIS) team concluded an 11-day mission to France on Jan. 24, which was requested by the Government of France, the IAEA said.
The mission to France aimed to help the country meet EU obligations that require an independent peer review of national programs for the safe and responsible management of spent fuel and radioactive waste.
According to the agency, the team in addition to noting several good practices, also offered suggestions aimed at further enhancements.
Nuclear power currently generates more than 70 percent of France's electricity. The country has 58 operating nuclear power reactors that will require the continuing safe management of radioactive waste and spent fuel, according to the IAEA.
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.
"On the basis of the review, the team concluded that France's waste management program is comprehensive and coherent in fostering safety," said ARTEMIS team leader Peter De Preter, and Senior Advisor at ONDRA/NIRAS, the Belgian agency for the management of radioactive waste.
"Our review highlights France's commitment to safety," he said.
The ARTEMIS team said France is well positioned to continue meeting high standards of safety, and noted a number of good practices to be shared with the global waste management community that include, "A clear government commitment to the national strategy and program for waste management, including safe disposal. The development of a transparent national waste inventory, and deliberate efforts towards maintaining a high level of professional, competent staff."
The team also made recommendations including facilitating the implementation of decommissioning as soon as possible. The team also advised on the management of very low level wastes and asked to consider mechanisms to address disposal liabilities for small waste producers.
"This peer review represents an important element in our efforts to ensure the safety of the French waste management program, establish greater public confidence and respond to the EU waste directive, Aurelien Louis, head of the nuclear industry department at the Directorate General of Energy and Climate.
"The outcome of the mission was very positive while also providing us with suggestions that will be a good basis for future enhancements," Louis said.
According to the IAEA, the final mission report will be provided to the government in about two months.
By Huseyin Erdogan
Anadolu Agency
energy@aa.com.tr