Who Looks After Radioactive Waste?
Policy and legislative framework The Government of Canada has put in place a structure of policies, legislation and responsible organizations that govern the management of radioactive wastes in Canada. Canadian government departments, agencies and the nuclear industry have clear roles and responsibilities through the Radioactive Waste Policy Framework (1996) to ensure the safe management of radioactive waste. Under the Framework, waste producers and owners are responsible, also known as the “polluter pays principle”, for the funding, management and operation of waste management facilities and other facilities required for their wastes. The Policy Framework recognizes that long-term management arrangements may be different for the categories of radioactive wastes specifically used nuclear fuel, low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste, and uranium mining and milling waste. What is the role of CNSC? The operation of Canada’s waste management facilities are regulated and monitored by
