Technical Meeting on Good Practices Associated with the Establishment of Radioactive Waste Inventories

Introduction
To manage radioactive waste safely and effectively, a comprehensive waste management system must be in place. Key components include robust legal and regulatory frameworks, technical resources, and sufficient human and financial support. Proper planning of technical resources requires a thorough understanding of the waste, achieved through a detailed waste inventory. This inventory provides data on both current and projected waste from nuclear facilities and applications, taking into account its origin, location, generation rate, volume, and characteristics. Inventory applies to current and future radioactive waste generated from a wide range of nuclear activities, including uranium mining, nuclear fuel cycle facilities, nuclear research reactors and research centres, nuclear power plants, radioactive waste management facilities, medical isotope production facilities, industrial applications, and any other facilities that may generate radioactive waste or byproducts (as defined by the regulations in a Member State). Establishing and updating an inventory helps understand the waste that needs management, though data scope and detail may vary depending on the inventory’s intended use. Member States often adopt different methods and assumptions for their inventories, which can lead to inconsistencies, such as underestimated or inaccurate figures, especially for historical waste. Uncertainties in future waste generation add further complexity. A streamlined methodology could improve inventory creation, making it more consistent yet adaptable across Member States. With an accurate estimate of current and future waste, planning for waste processing, storage, and disposal can be considered. This planning should consider both technical and non-technical factors, using “what if” scenarios to address potential variations in waste types and quantities.

Objectives
The purpose of the event is to facilitate and exchange good practices and experience related to the establishment and maintenance of radioactive waste inventories.

Target Audience
The meeting is intended for both regulators and operators who hold clear responsibilities within Member States for developing and planning the implementation of national waste management policies and strategies. Participants are expected to give brief presentations (following the structure outlined below) and to actively participate in the Q&A sessions.

Expected Outputs
In this technical meeting, the IAEA aims to gather information on Member States' practices in establishing national inventories. The meeting will also collect examples to support the development of a dedicated publication, which will provide guidance and recommend methodologies for preparing national and local inventories of radioactive waste and planning its management.