“Repository decision requires broad societal debate”
Nagra submitted the general licence application for a deep geological repository today. The next step is the review by the authorities, but a broad societal debate is also needed, Nagra CEO Matthias Braun pointed out. The repository should be legitimised not only through a technical review, but also as a result of a direct democratic…
The deep geological repository for Switzerland’s radioactive waste is to be constructed in Nördlich Lägern. Nagra submitted the corresponding general licence application to the federal authorities today. In its application, Nagra demonstrates that Nördlich Lägern is the most suitable site and that a repository constructed there can meet the highest safety standards in the long term. In addition, the application includes an outline of the basic features of the project.
“We are demonstrating that we can construct and operate this deep geological repository safely – even if it will be challenging. We are also showing that the repository is compatible with environmental protection,” said Nagra CEO Matthias Braun at a media conference in Bern.
“With this application, we are laying out the facts needed for Switzerland to decide on the safe geological disposal of the nation’s radioactive waste.” A solution to the problem is thus within reach.
It is now up to the authorities to review the technical content of the documents, says Braun. The Federal Council, Parliament and probably the electorate will then decide on the application.
Over the next months, the federal authorities will first check the application documentation for completeness. Nagra will then publish the entire application documentation and all the scientific reports online – three years earlier than required by law.
Nagra facilitates well-founded discussion
With this step, Nagra wants to enable an early and meaningful debate about the project – in parallel with the technical review of the application by the authorities. Nagra will be available for questions and discussions. “The cross-generational project of deep geological disposal needs to be debated as broadly as possible and should be legitimised as a result of a direct democratic process – in Switzerland, this includes a national referendum,” Braun continued.
According to current planning, the Federal Council will decide on the application in 2029 and Parliament in 2030. A national referendum is expected to take place in 2031.
Further information: Patrick Studer, Media Spokesperson, +41 76 579 36 50 medien@nagra.ch
Supplementary information, photos and videos can be found in the online media dossier: nagra.ch/mediendossier
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