An information portal of the Federal government and the Länder

Residue and waste management

One of the most important tasks related to dismantling nuclear facilities is dealing with residues and wastes. The term "residue and waste management" encompasses all the measures which aim to achieve safe, effective and resource-efficient handling of material from nuclear facilities.

Handling residues and wastes

There are different options available:

  • If the activity is demonstrably low and radiologically insignificant, clearance may be granted.
  • Prior to clearance or further treatment, the material may be placed in decay storage to reduce its radioactivity.
  • If the material is to be disposed of as radioactive waste, it must be conditioned, stored and subsequently placed in a repository.