The report emphasized that Belarus’ policy for managing spent nuclear fuel is based on the national legislation and international treaties that Belarus is a party to. State policy on radioactive waste management is carried out in accordance with a strategy that outlines key areas and approaches to making management decisions, prioritizing safety, technical optimization and cost-effectiveness.
Olga Lugovskaya spoke about the developments in Belarus since the previous report. Following the referendum decision of 27 February 2022, the Constitution of Belarus enshrined the country's commitment to peaceful nuclear energy development. The country adopted a new law on safe use of nuclear energy. It formally establishes Gosatomnadzor’s status as the state regulatory authority in this area. Moreover, the presidential decree on improving the system of radioactive waste management designated the Emergencies Ministry as the state body governing radioactive waste management.
The report also addressed practical aspects of radioactive waste management in Belarus and outlined objectives for the near future. These include identifying suitable waste management technologies, selecting site, designing and constructing a waste disposal facility.
