zeit.de
Germany Narrows Down Nuclear Waste Repository Search
Germany's search for a permanent nuclear waste repository continues, narrowing down potential sites to 44% of the country's area. Baden-Württemberg remains a potential location, but the process will take several more years.
German
Germany
Germany Energy SecurityEnvironmental PolicyNuclear WasteSite SelectionGeological Survey
Bundesgesellschaft F
Air Endlagerung (Bge)BundestagBundesumweltministerium
Dagmar DehmerThekla WalkerLisa Seidel
- What is the overall objective of the search?
- The goal is to find a geologically suitable site for the permanent storage of 27,000 cubic meters of highly radioactive waste, ensuring safety for a million years. The current plan aims to identify the site by 2050.
- How has the search affected Baden-Württemberg?
- In Baden-Württemberg, several regions have been excluded or deemed unsuitable. However, significant parts of the state, including areas around Stuttgart and the Ostalbkreis, remain under consideration.
- Describe the methodology used to select potential sites.
- The BGE's selection process involves a series of hurdles, raising safety requirements at each stage. Sites failing to meet these standards are eliminated; the final decision rests with the Bundestag.
- What are the next steps and expected timeline for the project?
- While the new progress report doesn't provide binding results, it marks a significant step in the long process of finding a suitable location for the storage of nuclear waste. The process is expected to take several more years to be finalized.
- What is the current status of Germany's search for a nuclear waste repository?
- The search for a permanent repository for highly radioactive nuclear waste in Germany is ongoing, with the Bundesgesellschaft f air Endlagerung (BGE) narrowing down potential sites. Initially, 54% of Germany's area was considered; now, it's 44%.