Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Nuclear Wastes mentioned in the newscard, Nuclear Fission Reaction

Mains level: Nuclear Waste Management

nuclear waste

In the news

India recently achieved a significant milestone in its nuclear program with the loading of the core of the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR).
However, as India progresses towards energy independence, it faces the complex challenge of managing nuclear waste.

What is Nuclear Waste?

Composition: Nuclear waste comprises radioactive by-products generated during the fission process in nuclear reactors.
Radioactive Elements: These by-products include elements such as barium-144, krypton-89, and various isotopes of uranium and plutonium.

Spent Fuel Storage: Spent fuel, initially stored underwater for cooling, is later transferred to dry casks for long-term storage. This process is critical due to the high radioactivity of spent fuel. Ex.: The U.S. had 69,682 tonnes of spent fuel (as of 2015), Canada had 54,000 tonnes (2016), and Russia had 21,362 tonnes (2014).
Liquid Waste Treatment: Nuclear power plants have facilities to treat liquid waste, with some waste being discharged into the environment after treatment.
Vitrification: Liquid high-level waste is vitrified to form a stable glass for long-term storage.
Reprocessing: Reprocessing separates fissile material from non-fissile elements in spent fuel, allowing for the reuse of valuable materials. Ex.: India operates reprocessing plants in Trombay, Tarapur, and Kalpakkam.
Geological Disposal: Some experts advocate for burying nuclear waste deep underground in stable geological formations. Waste is sealed in containers and buried in granite or clay formations, away from human activity.

Environmental Risks: Improper waste management can lead to contamination of water resources and surrounding areas.
- Ex.: The Asse II salt mine in Germany faced contamination concerns due to nuclear waste storage.
Safety Concerns: Accidents at nuclear waste storage sites highlight the need for stringent safety measures.
- Ex.: The Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) in the U.S. experienced an accident in 2014, releasing radioactive materials.
Cost Implications: Waste management accounts for a significant portion of the overall cost of nuclear energy production.
- Cost Estimate: Waste management imposes a cost of $1.6-7.1 per MWh of nuclear energy.

On-Site Storage: Low and intermediate-level nuclear waste generated at power stations is treated and stored on-site. India’s PFBR project aims to address waste management challenges by utilizing fast breeder reactor technology.
IAEA Safeguards: India adheres to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards, ensuring the safe and secure handling of nuclear materials and waste.
Challenges Ahead: The delayed commissioning of the PFBR suggests potential complications in managing spent fuel with different compositions.

Investment in Research: Continued investment in research and development of advanced waste treatment technologies can enhance efficiency and safety in nuclear waste management.
International Collaboration: Collaborating with international organizations and sharing best practices can provide valuable insights and expertise in addressing nuclear waste challenges.
Public Engagement: Engaging with stakeholders and the public to raise awareness about nuclear waste management and address concerns regarding safety and environmental impact is crucial.
Regulatory Framework: Strengthening regulatory frameworks and implementing robust safety standards can ensure compliance with international guidelines and safeguard against potential hazards.

As India advances its nuclear program, effective waste management strategies are crucial to mitigate environmental and safety risks.

Q.In the Indian context, what is the implication of ratifying the ‘Additional Protocol’ with the `International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)’?

(a) The civilian nuclear reactors come under IAEA safeguards.

(b) The military nuclear installations come under the inspection of IAEA.

(d) The country automatically becomes a member of the NSG.