Austrian Board for Radioactive Waste Management

The Austrian Board for Radioactive Waste Management (Radioactive Waste Management Board) has been working on open questions relating to the final disposal of low and intermediate-level radioactive waste produced in Austria since 2021 and submits recommendations to the federal government as a basis for further decisions on the final disposal of radioactive waste.

Austria is a country that has been setting an example in the responsible use of nuclear power throughout its history. Austrians decided against the Zwentendorf nuclear power plant in 1978. As a result, the country has been spared the numerous problems associated with storing highly radioactive waste.

At the same time, Austria is a country of cutting-edge medicine, innovative product development and internationally recognised research. Low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste is repeatedly produced in these areas; such as for example, components of small reactors no longer required by the scientific community or work gloves worn by medical professionals. This waste is currently treated and stored professionally at Seibersdorf.

Austria takes responsibility

In spring 2021, the federal government established the Austrian Board for Radioactive Waste Management. The Austrian Board for Radioactive Waste Management consists of scientists, NGOs and representatives of the federal and provincial governments and the civil society. It draws up an inventory of the low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste in Austria, clarifies technical issues and proposes the next steps and a participation process for the public. The working method of the Austrian Board for Radioactive Waste Management is evidence-based and transparent.