Malaysia
Malaysian Prime Minister rejects nuclear energy because of concerns about the long-term management of radioactive waste. (18 September)
Japan
As Japan holds public consultations on the appropriate geology for geological disposal, the Japanese Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA) have published their first ever standards for disposal of higher activity radioactive waste. These new standards have been published in draft form, subject to their own public consultation. (2 August)
Japan’s Agency for Natural Resources and Energy briefed officials from coastal municipalities as part of the ongoing public consultation on geological disposal. The main concerns from local officials are about safety of geological disposal in a country so prone to earthquakes, and how to manage local public opinion. (27 August)
Five municipalities have issued “ordinances” that prohibit that community from hosting a GDF. This is out of the 900+ coastal municipalities potentially affected by Japan’s current search for a site. (28 August)
The Japanese Atomic Energy Agency says it could take about 70 years to decommission its oldest nuclear facilities. The plan requires a decision on a radioactive waste disposal site within the next 30 years. (30 August)
Asahi Shimbun, a leading national newspaper, publishes an editorial calling on the Government to stop deferring decisions on the disposal of radioactive waste, saying serious efforts required to find a solution to this tough question. (31 August)
Japan’s Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) has joined forces with the UK’s Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) to share expertise in decommissioning and radioactive waste management. (19 September)
After 30 years in the making, Japan not sure what to do with its new nuclear recycling plant — it might become a disposal facility (22 September).
South Korea
Korea Radioactive Waste Agency (KORAD) has agreed to extend its existing cooperation and practical arrangements with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). (19 September)
Korea Radioactive Waste Agency (KORAD) have established partnership with the Korean Radioactive Waste Society (KRS) for cooperation in decommissioning and waste management. The KRS is an association of 200+ radioactive waste management experts. (5 September)
Korean research on bentonite, a specialised cement used to seal-in radioactive waste and repel water within the underground caverns of a geological repositories. (29 August)
Taiwan
National referendum proposed because of public opposition to the planned phase out of nuclear power. Environmental groups criticise proposal citing lack of a geological repository anywhere for the safe disposal of radioactive waste. (30 August)
India
India media report on extensive international testing of radioactive waste packaging to ensure safe transportation. (5 August)
Iran
Iranian media report that issue of radioactive waste is biggest risk to new nuclear development globally. (12 September)
Sri Lanka
Worries that Sri Lanka may become an international dumping ground for radioactive waste. (14 & 17 August)