The American Nuclear Society and seven other prominent nuclear organisations* have sent a letter to energy secretary Jennifer Granholm asking the Department of Energy to establish an office dedicated to developing and managing an integrated nuclear waste storage, transportation, and disposal programme.

The letter says the federal government has effectively failed to pursue a national nuclear waste programme for over a decade. It calls for the new office to be set up within the DOE and to report “directly to you”.

The office would provide a focal point for work on spent nuclear fuel (SNF) and high-level radioactive waste (HLW) and allow for engagement with external stakeholders. It would also “demonstrate an intent and commitment to take meaningful action”.