Directive on management of radioactive waste and spent fuel in the post-Fukushima context

Authors

  • Nuria Prieto Serrano

Keywords:

Nuclear Law, Euratom, IAEA, radioactive waste, nuclear safety, environmental principles in Nuclear Law (polluter pays, sustainability, avoidance of burdens to future generations), export of waste, competences of national regulators

Abstract

Council Directive 2011/70/Euratom establishing a Community framework for the responsible and safe management of spent fuel and radioactive waste has been adopted on July 19, 2011. This Directive introduces into Community law international standards developed by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in the management of radioactive waste and spent fuel, adding some elements which are not present in the international framework. It is expected that the transposition of this Directive will have a positive impact, particularly through the obligation for the Member States to draft and implement national programs where they issue of the final disposal of such waste should be triggered. 

Issue

Section

LEGISLATION