Sweden reaches an important milestone in its radioactive waste management programme

Claes Thegerström, CEO of SKB, is convinced that, if SKB obtains permission to build the repository for spent nuclear fuel in Forsmark according to the plans and quality measures proposed in the application, then long-term safety of humans and the environment is guaranteed. The application and supporting documentation will be reviewed over the next few years by the Swedish radiation safety and environmental protection authorities. The documentation comprises some 7000 pages. Once the authorities have completed their review, the siting community and the Swedish government will have an opportunity to express their views on the repository project. Construction of the facility could begin in 2015.

Image: SKB