For the first time in eight years, the government has decided to revise its basic policy toward the realization of the final disposal of high-level radioactive waste, so-called "nuclear waste," generated by nuclear power generation. We will work towards final disposal in the future."
Regarding "nuclear waste", the national government has decided to conduct "geological disposal" by setting up a final disposal site deeper than 300 meters underground and burying it. A survey aimed at this has begun, but since then the number of target areas has not increased, and there are calls from the locals to expand their interest nationwide.
Under these circumstances, the government has decided to revise the basic policy that summarizes the details of efforts to realize final disposal for the first time in eight years, and has compiled a draft of a new basic policy.
The draft clearly states that the government will work together and take responsibility for the final disposal of the waste, demonstrating that the government will be at the forefront.
As a specific effort, in addition to individually visiting more than 100 local governments nationwide jointly with NUMO (Nuclear Power Environment Improvement Organization), which conducts the disposal business of the country, and electric power companies that have nuclear power plants, and with the top of the local government where the nuclear power plant is located. We are planning to establish a new forum for consultation.
Through these efforts, the government hopes to increase the number of areas that accept surveys and move forward with the selection of final disposal sites.