Exploring the Fundamental Issues

In November 2002, Parliament passed the Nuclear Fuel Waste Act (NFWA). It required the major owners of used nuclear fuel in Canada to establish the NWMO. The initial phase of our mandate was to study approaches for the safe, long-term management of used nuclear fuel, and to recommend a preferred approach to the Government of Canada. The historical information about one part of that process is preserved here in line with our commitment to transparency.

Planning for the study

In this phase, NWMO begins to explore the fundamental issues raised in its earlier Conversations About Expectations. A number of activities will be undertaken to provide an information base for dialogue, to encourage the involvement of interested Canadians, and to bring expert advice to the process.

NWMO will also begin to develop a preliminary framework for analyzing and assessing the alternative management approaches. It will need to reflect the values of Canadians and to address the social, ethical, environmental, economic and technical implications of decision making. Engagement and dialogue activities are planned to solicit input, advice and direction in the development of all of this material. All of it will be made available on the website to help facilitate an informed dialogue.

Explore the Study

After a comprehensive three-year study, engaging specialists and citizens from all walks of life, the NWMO recommended Adaptive Phased Management for the long-term care of Canada’s used nuclear fuel.

All the specialists and dialogue reports and the analysis supporting the NWMO recommendation are available here for review.