The NWMO signs memorandum of understanding with Canadian Nuclear Laboratories

The memorandum of understanding establishes a co-operation agreement between the Nuclear Waste Management Organization and Canadian Nuclear Laboratories.

April 30, 2026

Toronto, Ont.

The memorandum of understanding establishes a co-operation agreement between the Nuclear Waste Management Organization and Canadian Nuclear Laboratories.

At the 2026 Canadian Nuclear Association Conference in Ottawa, Ont., Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) and the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that establishes a framework of co-operation with respect to radioactive waste management.

This agreement represents the NWMO and CNL’s commitment to strengthening and enhancing co-operation between both organizations, as the NWMO advances deep geological repository projects for Canada’s intermediate- and high-level radioactive waste.

“This is an important moment in our ongoing partnership with Canadian Nuclear Laboratories,” said Derek Wilson, Chief Operating Officer at the NWMO.

“By bringing together our expertise in nuclear waste management and environmental stewardship, we are strengthening our ability to advance Canada’s plans for the long-term storage of intermediate- and high-level radioactive waste in a way that protects people and the environment,” said Wilson. “Thank you to CNL for its continued support and expertise as we celebrate this achievement.”

“The memorandum of understanding reflects our shared commitment to advancing nuclear science and innovation within Canada’s nuclear sector,” said Dr. Monica Regalbuto, Vice-President of Science and Technology at CNL. “By combining our expertise with the Nuclear Waste Management Organization, we are advancing clean energy, protecting the environment, and delivering scientific solutions that have a meaningful impact on lives both in Canada and around the world.”

The MOU highlights commitments made by the NWMO and CNL, and the shared co-operation in all fields of study, including transportation, engagement, and safety and security.

About the NWMO

Founded in 2002, the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) is a not-for-profit organization tasked with the safe, long-term management of Canada’s intermediate- and high-level radioactive waste, in a manner that protects people and the environment for generations to come.

The NWMO has been guided for more than 20 years by a dedicated team of world-class scientists, engineers and Indigenous Knowledge Holders who are developing innovative and collaborative solutions for nuclear waste management.

About CNL

As Canada’s premier nuclear science and technology laboratory and working under the direction of Atomic Energy of Canada Limited, CNL is a world leader in the development of innovative nuclear science and technology products and services.

CNL also serves as the nexus between government, the nuclear industry, the broader private sector, and the academic community, working in collaboration with these sectors to advance innovative Canadian products and services towards real-world use, including carbon-free energy, cancer treatments and other therapies, non-proliferation technologies, and waste management solutions.