Nuclear waste consists of radioactive atoms produced as a byproduct when large atoms split. This waste is generated during the operation of nuclear reactors. 

• When a nuclear fuel nucleus breaks into two within a reactor, it releases nuclear energy. The primary component of nuclear waste is the smaller nuclei left behind, known as fission products. 

Impact Of Nuclear Waste: Long-Term Radioactivity, Groundwater Pollution

• Long-Term Radioactivity and environmental degradation: Nuclear waste contains radioactive materials that can remain hazardous for thousands of years, leading to long-term environmental contamination.

• Example: The 1986 Chernobyl disaster resulted in radioactive waste contaminating land, air, and water across Europe, creating an exclusion zone that remains uninhabitable.

• Exposure to Radiation & Health impacts: Improper management of nuclear waste can lead to exposure to harmful radiation, increasing the risk of cancers, genetic mutations and other health issues.

• Example: The 2011 Fukushima disaster in Japan illustrates the catastrophic consequences of nuclear waste leaks.
• Groundwater Pollution: Radioactive isotopes from nuclear waste can leach into groundwater, affecting water supplies and ecosystems.
• Impact on Local Communities: Communities near nuclear waste disposal sites often face social and ethical dilemmas regarding their safety and future.
• Economic Impacts: Including transportation, storage, and long-term monitoring, decline in property values due to the stigma associated with radioactive contamination and costly clean-up efforts, legal liabilities, and loss of economic activity in affected regions.

Challenges In Managing Nuclear Waste: Spent Fuel, Long-Term Storage, Accident Hazards

• Spent Fuel: It is highly radioactive and generates significant heat, necessitating underwater storage for several decades to allow cooling.
• Long-Term Storage: After cooling, spent fuel is transferred to dry casks for extended storage. Countries with nuclear power programs have substantial amounts of spent fuel.

• As of recent years, the U.S. had 69,682 tonnes of spent fuel (2015), Canada 54,000 tonnes (2016), and Russia 21,362 tonnes (2014).

• Liquid Waste Facilities: Nuclear power plants process liquid waste, with small quantities of aqueous wastes containing short-lived radionuclides being released after treatment.

• Japan is currently discharging treated liquid waste from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean.
• Accident Hazards: The storage of liquid waste poses potential accident hazards, a concern noted by Dr. Ramana regarding India’s handling of nuclear waste.
• Capacity Issues: The IPFM report highlighted operational delays at Tarapur and Kalpakkam facilities, with a combined average capacity factor of around 15%.

WAY FORWARD

• Separation Process: Reprocessing involves chemically treating spent fuel to separate fissile material from non-fissile material. This method increases fuel efficiency but requires specialized facilities and personnel.

• Example: India operates reprocessing plants in Trombay, Tarapur, and Kalpakkam. 

• Long-Term Storage: Geological disposal involves sealing the waste in special containers and burying it underground in granite or clay, providing long-term storage away from human activity.
• International Collaboration: Collaborating with international organizations and sharing best practices can provide valuable insights and expertise in addressing nuclear waste challenges.
• Public Engagement: Engaging with stakeholders and the public to raise awareness about nuclear waste management and address concerns regarding safety and environmental impact is crucial.

• Recycling Nuclear Waste: Spent nuclear fuel, which is over 90% uranium, can be chemically processed to close the fuel cycle, significantly reducing waste and increasing energy extraction from the raw ore.

• France currently recycles their spent fuel.

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