Key Question

Approach

Considerations

Safety, security and protection of people and the environment are central to the siting process.

Is there the potential to find a safe site?

This question will be explored through further work to examine the suitability of the geology in the area and to identify specific potentially suitable siting areas, using the sites evaluation factors described later in this document (here).

The existence of potentially suitable siting areas must be demonstrated through technical studies conducted by consultants who are experts in the field hired by the NWMO.

• One or more potentially suitable siting areas must be acceptable to the community, as represented by accountable authorities, as the focus of any future work.

The project will be implemented in a way that will foster the long-term well-being of the community.

Is there the potential to foster the well-being of the community through the implementation of the project, and what might need to be put in place
(e.g. infrastructure, resources, planning initiatives) to ensure this outcome?

This question will be explored through further work to understand the community’s vision for its long-term sustainability and well-being, the current conditions in the community, and opportunities for the community to benefit from the project. Evaluation factors described later in this document (here) will be used as the basis for discussion. Any social and economic pressures that will need to be carefully managed will also be identified.

• The potential to foster the well-being of the community must be shown to the satisfaction of the community, as represented by accountable authorities, and the NWMO.

• The investment required to ensure this outcome must be reasonable as determined by the NWMO.

At a later step in the process, the community must demonstrate it is informed and willing to host the project.

Is there the potential for citizens in the community to continue to be interested in exploring this project through subsequent steps in the site selection process?

This question will be explored together with the accountable authorities in the community through organizing open houses, community meetings and conversations with people in the community.

• The potential for sustained interest among citizens in the community must be shown to the satisfaction of the community, as represented by accountable authorities, and the NWMO.

The project will be implemented in a way that will foster the long-term well-being of the surrounding area.

Is there the potential to foster the well-being of the surrounding area and to establish the foundation to move forward with the project?

This question will be explored together with the accountable authorities in the community through one-on-one meetings with accountable authorities, opinion leaders and Aboriginal communities in the area, as well as through workshops.

• The potential for sustained interest in the project in the surrounding area must be shown to the satisfaction of the community, as represented by accountable authorities, and the NWMO.

What Is the Purpose of a Feasibility Study?

How Do Communities Request a Feasibility Study?

How Is a Feasibility Study Undertaken?

What Questions Will Scientific and Technical Studies
Address?

What Questions Will Community Well-Being Studies Address?

What Is the Focus of the Regional Study?

What Is the Role of Traditional Knowledge in the Assessment?

Resources to Support Participation

Learn More About Feasibility Studies