The Council approved the state program for managing radioactive waste.

The Verkhovna Rada has adopted the draft law on the National Targeted Environmental Program for the Management of Radioactive Waste as a basis.

This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Environmental Protection.

“The program is more relevant and necessary than ever, as it contributes to the safety of both the present and the future. Additionally, it serves as a guideline for international partners willing to invest in radiation safety not only in Ukraine but also globally. The implementation of the program will enhance the methods of managing radioactive waste in our country,” stated the Minister of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources, Svitlana Hrynchuk.

It is noted that the program outlines a list of tasks and measures required for the development of appropriate infrastructure for the long-term storage and disposal of radioactive waste. It is designed for an 8-year period, from 2025 to 2032.

According to the minister, another expected outcome of the program is to improve the level of environmental protection from the harmful effects of radioactive waste and to refine the management system for it.

“Recent events have shown that the aggressor state is committing unprecedented crimes – the drone strike on the arch of the new safe confinement of the 'Shelter' facility is further evidence that we need to unite efforts to ensure radiation safety,” added Svitlana Hrynchuk.

Reference.

The objectives of the program are:

• significantly reduce the negative impact on the environment from facilities that generate radioactive waste (such as nuclear power plants);
• optimize the processes of their storage and disposal;
• establish strict control and ensure transparency at all stages of operation.

The following measures are planned for the years 2025-2032:

• reconstruction and modernization of existing infrastructure, such as storage facilities for radioactive waste, as well as the construction of new facilities using modern technologies;
• improvement of the radioactive waste accounting system; development of regulatory and legal frameworks in the field of radioactive waste management;
• attracting international support for technical and financial assistance in implementing the tasks and measures of the program.

Background. Previously, Mind reported that the Cabinet allocated over 1.5 billion UAH to support the safe condition of the Chernobyl Shelter. The corresponding decision was made by the government during a meeting.