Opening Remarks and Acknowledgments
Embracing a Balanced Approach
Gathering for the 5th Canadian Conference on Nuclear Waste Management, Decommissioning, and Environmental Restoration, attendees were welcomed by Rumina Velshi, President & CEO of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC). In her opening address, Velshi expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming panel discussion and took a moment to acknowledge the traditional territories of the Hatiwendaronk, Haudenosaunee, and Anishinaabe, including the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation.
Navigating Industry Responsibilities
Striking a Delicate Balance
Velshi underlined the dual responsibilities faced by individuals within the nuclear industry: ensuring the secure operation of nuclear facilities while also crafting effective strategies for the management of radioactive waste and facility decommissioning. Balancing these imperatives is essential to safeguarding both urban centers and the environment amidst the backdrop of climate change.
Reflecting on Current Progress
Auditor General’s Verdict on Waste Management
Last autumn, the Office of the Auditor General released an assessment of Canada’s management of low- and intermediate-level nuclear waste. Constituting nearly 99.5% of the nation’s radioactive waste output, this report showcased the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission’s alignment with international standards aimed at preserving the environment and ensuring intergenerational safety. This praise serves as a commendable acknowledgment of recent achievements, emphasizing the need for sustained improvements.
A Path Forward: Policy and Recommendations
Embracing Change and Innovation
Velshi highlighted the evolving landscape of nuclear waste management, referencing the updated policy by Natural Resources Canada and the Integrated Strategy for Radioactive Waste submitted by the Nuclear Waste Management Organization. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to proactive adaptation and exploration of novel strategies in waste management, aligned with global developments.
Building Trust and Engaging Communities
The Power of Effective Communication
Velshi emphasized the paramount importance of communication in ensuring public understanding and acceptance of nuclear projects. She called for establishing genuine two-way dialogues, acknowledging fears, and addressing concerns while showcasing the evidence-based foundation for safe waste management. This approach, she noted, fosters the trust that forms the bedrock of successful engagement.
Indigenous Partnerships: A Shared Journey
Trust, Consultation, and Reconciliation
Drawing attention to the imperative of meaningful engagement with Indigenous Nations and communities, Velshi emphasized the necessity of recognizing their essential roles in projects that could impact them. She highlighted the long-term commitment required for successful reconciliation, rooted in genuine partnerships and mutual understanding.
Learning from Past Experiences
A Case for Building Trust
Velshi discussed the lessons learned from the Bruce nuclear site’s proposed Deep Geological Repository and highlighted the importance of initiating trust-building efforts from the project’s inception. This experience serves as an example of the evolving dynamics of public engagement, underscoring the significance of establishing trust and confidence at the outset.
Looking to the Future
Public Trust in Nuclear Projects
As the industry gears up for the deployment of small nuclear reactors (SMRs) and other large-scale projects, Velshi stressed the need to gain public trust in these endeavors. Highlighting the importance of waste management in this process, she called for establishing reliable frameworks for radioactive waste disposal, embracing innovative solutions, and ensuring confidence in operators’ capabilities.
International Collaboration and Solutions
Learning from Global Insights
In her role as Chair of the IAEA’s Commission on Safety Standards, Velshi shared the benefits of international collaboration in promoting safe radioactive waste management solutions. She emphasized tailoring solutions to specific national contexts while benefiting from shared insights, underlining the importance of identifying solutions that resonate with each country’s unique circumstances.
Embracing Opportunities
Waste Management as a Nexus of Progress
Velshi concluded her remarks by emphasizing that waste management represents not just an obligation but also an opportunity. She underscored the chance for knowledge sharing, partnership formation, innovation, and meaningful progress. By embracing these opportunities, the industry can pave the way for a sustainable future.
As the conference continues, attendees are poised to delve further into these themes, exploring the evolving landscape of nuclear waste management and its intersection with public engagement, indigenous partnerships, and innovative solutions.
Sources: THX News & Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission.
