Toward a Rational Policy for the Management of High-Level Radioactive Waste: Integrating Science and Ethics

Bulletin of Science, Technology and Society 19 (3):179-189 (1999)
  Copy   BIBTEX

Abstract

The disposal of high-level radioactive waste (HLRW) is an issue that has seemed to defy not only solution but even a rational approach. This article reviews the development of U.S. HLRW disposal policy, focusing on the role of the scientific establishment. The failure of policymakers and their expert advisers is traced to the nature of the issues that need to be resolved to guarantee the safety of present and future generations. Scientific analysis cannot be used to predict the significance and impact of human actions at disposal sites in the distant future. Consequently, it cannot provide a comprehensive risk assessment of any permanent HLRW disposal options. Perpetual management of HLRW in monitored retrievable facilities can address this issue. A management process that is guided by both science and ethics is best suited to protecting health and the environment, as well as intergenerational equity and justice.

Other Versions

No versions found

Links

PhilArchive



    Upload a copy of this work     Papers currently archived: 103,388

External links

Setup an account with your affiliations in order to access resources via your University's proxy server

Through your library

Similar books and articles

Equity and nuclear waste disposal.Kristin Shrader-Frechette - 1994 - Journal of Agricultural and Environmental Ethics 7 (2):133-156.
Reversible Experiments: Putting Geological Disposal to the Test.Jan Peter Bergen - 2016 - Science and Engineering Ethics 22 (3):707-733.

Analytics

Added to PP
2020-11-27

Downloads
8 (#1,613,850)

6 months
1 (#1,572,794)

Historical graph of downloads
How can I increase my downloads?

References found in this work

No references found.

Add more references