High Level Waste Repository Selection

Abstract

Of the many multiple criteria studies, probably the most well-known is the study conducted by Woodward-Clyde Consultants concerning the location of a permanent storage facility for nuclear waste. Nuclear waste from power plants in the US is a major problem. In 1982, the Nuclear Waste Policy Act was passed by the US Congress, specifying a schedule for selecting repository sites. In November, 1984 the Department of Energy established general guidelines for evaluation of possible repository sites, specifying system guidelines for public health and safety, the environment, socioeconomics, and the ease and cost of repository development, as well as technical guidelines including conditions required in such a site. The repository was designed to be a system of tunnels and rooms excavated in stable rock at least 1000 feet underground. The plan was for nuclear waste to be shipped from power plants to the repository and permanently stored there. When full, the repository is to be sealed to minimize radiological leakage. (Keeney, 1987, p. 196). In December, 1984 the Department of Energy published initial environmental assessments of five sites nominated by the Secretary of Energy (DOE, 1984a). These sites were Davis Canyon, Utah (bedded salt); Deaf Smith, Texas (bedded salt); Richton Dome, Mississippi (salt dome); Hanford, Washington (basalt); and Yucca Mountain, Nevada (volcanic tuff).