Deep geological disposal is an internationally recognised waste management solution. Some countries are already successfully operating low- and intermediate-level waste repositories, and Finland is constructing the first high-level waste repository, which will be ready in the next few years.
Deep geological repositories
After many years of research by our experts, we have now identified the best rock and possess a robust disposal concept.
The surface infrastructure of a deep geological repository refers to those components that are visible at the surface. These are needed for the construction and operation of the repository.
Switzerland will dispose of its radioactive waste in a deep geological repository. For the protection of humans and the environment, this type of repository will have multiple safety barriers that contribute to its long-term safety.
Since radioactive waste is produced, stored and disposed of at different locations, there is already a need to transport it today. Transport casks safely enclose the waste at all times.
Switzerland will eventually dispose of its radioactive waste in a deep geological repository. This could be realised as a so-called “combined repository” or as two individual repositories.
In the future, Switzerland will dispose of its radioactive waste in a deep geological repository. This consists of buildings at the surface, accesses leading below ground and underground facilities. Several hundred metres below the earth’s surface, the waste will be safely isolated far away from the human habitat. Multiple barriers ensure this.