Book

Deep Disposal: A Documentary Account of Burying Nuclear Waste in Canada

2024

Synopsis

"Deep Disposal: A Documentary Account of Burying Nuclear Waste in Canada" by William Leiss provides a comprehensive examination of Canada's efforts to manage high-level nuclear waste. The book delves into the historical context, beginning with a 1977 proposal to bury nuclear waste in the Canadian Shield, and traces the evolution of this initiative over subsequent decades.

Leiss discusses the establishment of the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) in 2002, which was tasked with finding a long-term solution for Canada's nuclear waste. The narrative explores the challenges faced by NWMO, including the search for a willing host community and the complexities of obtaining consent from Indigenous groups whose traditional territories are considered for repository sites.

The author also addresses technical aspects of nuclear waste disposal, such as the development of deep geological repositories (DGRs) intended to safely contain hazardous materials for tens of thousands of years. Leiss examines the public perception of nuclear energy and waste, highlighting how societal attitudes influence policy decisions.

Throughout the book, Leiss emphasizes the urgency of resolving nuclear waste disposal issues, especially in the context of increasing reliance on nuclear energy to reduce carbon emissions. He critically analyzes the policy decisions and strategies employed over the years, questioning whether the process could have been better designed and assessing its likelihood of success.

"Deep Disposal" serves as an essential resource for understanding the complexities of nuclear waste management in Canada, offering insights into the interplay between technology, policy, and public perception. Leiss's detailed account underscores the significance of this issue for Canada's energy future and environmental health.

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