Multi-year IAEA Project to make Comparative Analysis of Nuclear Waste and CO2 Storage

Economists and energy planners at the IAEA have embarked upon a multi-year project that will make a comparative analysis of the storage of nuclear waste and carbon dioxide. The project is expected to be of interest to many countries investigating nuclear power while weighing mounting anxiety over climate change. The study will seek to provide information and experience about the possible advantages and disadvantages of going to fossil-based or nuclear-based power generation.

Concerns over climate change and energy security have prompted greater interest in carbon capture and storage (CCS), a technology that would reduce greenhouse gases emissions by trapping CO2 emitted by fossil fuel power plants and storing them underground, similar to the safe long-term disposal of nuclear waste generated in nuclear power plants. The project will also look at the environmental impact of storing the two waste products underground, and the potential hazards to human health.